Beyond the Roots: Feeding Plants Through Their Leaves

Break the Box 

When I first learned about foliar sprays, I’ll admit, I was confused. At that time, my understanding was that plants consumed most nutrients from the soil through their roots. Feed the soil, and the plants will flourish. Yes, that is true. Soil health is the foundation of healthy plants, but the soil doesn’t always cooperate.  Restoring soil health can be a slow process. Life takes time to rebuild.  

With foliar sprays, you give the plant what it needs right through its leaves or flowers. Plants have tiny pores called stomata. They are used for ‘breathing’, but they can also receive nutrients. Spray a well-balanced mix of bioavailable micronutrients on plant foliage, and the results can be quick and observable. It’s like an intravenous shot of vitamins and minerals. 

Learn How to Use the Tool  

Foliar sprays are one of the most effective ways to tackle plant health issues, address yield concerns, and cultivate pest resistance. Micronutrient deficiencies like zinc, iron, and manganese can be difficult to correct through soil applications alone. These trace elements are essential for plant vitality and should always be part of a comprehensive fertilizer program. Foliar feeding bypasses problematic soil conditions and delivers nutrients directly to the plant, often producing visible improvements within just a day or two. It’s a fast, effective, and a efficient tool to complement soil based  fertilization. However, not all foliar sprays are created  equal. Quality matters.   

Complete Fertilizer Program 

I like to use foliar sprays to complement soil fertilization, not replace it.  It gives the grower another avenue to influence plant health and crop yield. Studies and personal experience have shown that foliar feeding is best for micronutrient blends to address issues strategically during the varying critical growth stages. Timing matters, too. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal because the plant’s stomata is open and temperatures are cooler. Like with any new tool, you’ll have to learn how to use it properly. When used well, foliar sprays can help bridge the gap between immediate crop needs and long-term soil restoration. 

Try It 

Healthy soil is the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, but rebuilding it takes time, and time isn’t always on our side when crops are showing signs of stress. Micronutrient deficiencies like zinc, iron, and manganese can compromise plant health and, ultimately, the quality of our food. Foliar sprays can deliver bioavailable micronutrients directly to the plant, bypass soil limitations, and provide quick observable results. So if you want to unleash the full health of your plants consider incorporating a high-quality foliar fertilizer into your plant feeding regimen.