Chloride is also beneficial in fields where plants are likely to experience high foliar or root disease pressure caused by fungi. The element suppresses activity of such diseases as tanspot, striped rust, leaf rust, Septoria and common root rot. It helps reduce lodging and speeds plant maturity. Fixen says that studies indicate any number of chloride sources can be used. Potassium chloride is the most common because it provides two essential nutrients, may cost less and is readily available.
Magnesium chloride is another source and is applied as a liquid fertilizer.
Other options include ammonium chloride and calcium chloride. You can apply these materials in any number of ways. Chloride is soluble and moves like nitrates in the soil. Under heavy rainfall conditions or in sandy soils there is a possibility it will leach out. The scientist says profits can be increased by adding Cl fertilizer, especially in low to medium testing soils.