Open Systems - These systems include lined and unlined open ditches and gated pipes that are used for furrow and flood irrigation methods. Micronutrient deficiencies can frequently be corrected by foliar application. Nutrients can be applied to plant foliage as sprays or through over- head sprinkler systems. Concentration is generally less than 1 to 2 percent to prevent injury to foliage. The addition of an adjuvant to the spray is recommended for better coverage.
Most crops respond better to foliar feeding when the nutrients are applied during the morning hours.
Demonstrate the methods of applying fertilizer by using a garden plot. Use photos showing different kinds of application equipment. Take a field trip to a fertilizer applicator's business and observe types of equipment and demonstrations on how the equipment is used. When making a dry fertilizer-pesticide mix, the fertilizer should be impregnated with the pesticide to avoid segregation. The mixture must be applied within a short time or the pesticide may deteriorate.