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Solubility – The Key to Plant Nutrition

September 24, 2018

Solubility – The Key to Plant Nutrition

September 24, 2018

One of the most important concepts in fertilizer chemistry and plant nutrition is “solubility.” In the plant sciences, solubility is defined as how readily nutrients are dissolved in water and can be taken up by plants. There are many factors that can affect the solubility of a nutrient, including but not limited to chemical structure, ion charge, temperature, and pressure. pH can also have a profound impact on the solubility of nutrients; this is because different types of nutrients in a solution/soil colloid will tend to attract or repel each other based on their chemical properties. Sometimes it is beneficial to fertilize plants with highly soluble nutrients; sometimes it’s detrimental. In this feature, well examine the topic of solubility in greater detail so that you have a better grasp as to how the nutrients you choose to fertilizer with will 1.) react with the environment and 2.) affect plant health. 


Before we learn more about the solubility of common fertilizer chemistries, let’s take a moment to review basic plant physiology. As we will see, if nutrients were not capable of being dissolved in water, plant life would not be possible.
salt ions in water

PHLOEM, XYLEM AND EVAPOTRANSPIRATION – THE PLANT’S NUTRIENT TRANSPORT SYSTEM

All higher plants (including grasses, vegetables, and trees) have a vascular system which is analogous to an animal’s circulatory system. The plant vascular system consists of two primary types of tissues that are typically bundled together: xylem and phloem. Phloemtubules carry sugar, other organic compounds and minerals around the plant. Typically, sugar is transported down to plant roots as an energy source for root growth. Xylemtubules transport water and are responsible for keeping the plant hydrated. Water is drawn from the ground into the roots where it is pulled upward through the stem, all the way to the leaf or blade, where it eventually exists through stomata. (Stomata are tiny pores on leaf blades that open and close to control the rates of water loss and gas exchange). The entire process of water being drawn through the plant is called evapotranspiration. Because water has cohesive and adhesive properties (meaning water likes to “stick” to surfaces, as well as itself), when water evaporates out through a stomate, another water molecule gets pulled into the stomate to take its place. Essentially, xylem tubes facilitate an unbroken chain of water molecules that are constantly being pulled upward through the plant. This is critical because this is how nutrients from the ground are transported to all parts of the plant; they are dissolved in the water located inside xylem tissues. In other words, nutrients that are not soluble cannot be used by plants.

STATE OF SOLUBILITY AT DELIVERY – WHICH FERTILIZERS PERFORM BETTER: GRANULAR OR LIQUID PRODUCTS?

Much study has gone in to determining if granular or liquid fertilizers are more effective at delivering nutrients to the plant. As it turns out, as long as the nutrient source, environmental conditions and application rate are the same, both are equally effective. When nutrients are already dissolved in water, they are immediately absorbed into the ground. In the case of granular fertilizers, if the ground is sufficiently saturated due to heavy irrigation or adequate rainfall, the same nutrients will readily dissolve at disperse into the soil in the same manner as if they were delivered in liquid form. In the case of turf, two benefits that come from liquid fertilizer applications are the immediate penetration of nutrients into the soil, as well as a more even distribution of nutrients across the soil surface. But remember, given adequate ground saturation, nutrients delivered from granules will disperse just as easily given enough time. 
hand pouring granular fertilizer into vat of even more fertilizer
man walking golf course spraying fertilizer
SOLUBILITY PROPERTIES OF COMMON NUTRIENTS
As referenced earlier in this feature, solubility of nutrients can vary significantly by nutrient source, as well as temperature. Take a look at the chart below which reports the solubility of some of the more common nutrient sources in the industry. Note that in every case, as temperature increases, so does solubility.
cec soil and components graph
SOLUBILITY OF NITROGEN
Most plants need more nitrogen than any other primary or secondary nutrient. Nitrogen comes in numerous forms, including but not limited to: urea (all sub-forms), ammonium (all salt forms), nitrate (all salt forms) and numerous organic sources (such as biosolids and composts). Each of these N-sources has a different degree of solubility. For example, urea is extremely soluble, which means if you drop urea granules into a beaker of water, the urea will readily dissolve. The extreme solubility of urea is beneficial because an abundant supply of nitrogen is easily delivered to plant roots in the presence of water. Unfortunately, urea’s extreme solubility can also be detrimental in situations where nitrogen is accidently over applied (which leads to burning). It is important to note that the release rate of urea (or other forms of controlled release nitrogen) in granular form can be altered by coating it with polymer, sulfur or both, HOWEVER this is a physical method of slowing down the release of nitrogen. The solubility of the urea nitrogen contained within the polymer/sulfur coating remains unchanged.  
cec soil particle size
Some fertilizer labels contain a section called: “WIN” or “Water Insoluble Nitrogen.” This refers to any nitrogen in a compound that is not readily dissolvable in water and immediately available to a plant. Over time, this nitrogen slowly becomes available raw ingredient the compound breaks down.  
 
SOLUBILITY OF HUMIC SUBSTANCES
Humic Substances are highly valuable soil amendments because they chelate micronutrients, retain soil moisture, and create an ideal living environment for beneficial soil microbes. It is important to note that not all humic substances are alike. Humic substances range from highly soluble fulvic acids and moderately soluble humic acids, all the way down to completely insoluble humin substances. Humins are dark and tar-like in appearance and have no beneficial properties in plant-soil systems. Make sure that if you add humic substances to your soil, you are adding mostly fulvic and humic acids. For those applying liquid products through traditional spraying and fertigation, make sure your humic substances consist of mostly fulvics and lower molecular weight humic acids. Other humic substances may not dissolve in water, which could clog spray systems.
schematic look cation exchange
SOLUBILITY OF IRON SUBSTANCES
Iron is an important micronutrient commonly used to give turf a dark, lush green appearance. Iron typically comes in two forms in the earth’s crust: Fe+2 (ferrous iron) and Fe+3(ferric iron). Plants prefer the ferrous form for uptake, however the ferric form is more abundant in the soil. Have you ever tried to dissolve iron oxide (rust) in water? Nothing happens- that’s because iron oxide is completely insoluble in water. Ferrous iron is quite soluble in water (hence its ability to be transported in xylem tissue), however ferrous iron is easily oxidized into the ferric form. For these reasons, iron sulfate and iron sucrate are popular forms of iron in granular fertilizer mixes. When iron is bound to a sulfate or sucrate, it becomes harder for the environment to convert it into an oxide. In order to maximize the solubility of iron in liquid fertilizers, iron-chelates are used. Chelates are extremely soluble in water; they surround the metal ion and protect it from the oxidative environment of pure water. The most common forms of chelated iron are Fe-EDTA, Fe-EDDHA, and Fe-DTPA. If you’ve ever used a liquid iron nutrient product, it more than likely contained one of the three aforementioned chelated iron complexes.

cation exchange capacity fulvic acid chelation
SOLUBILITY OF LIME
Lime is primarily used to balance the pH of acidic soils. Compared to the solubility of most nutrients, lime’s solubility is relatively low. Interestingly, as opposed to most nutrients, the solubility of lime decreases as temperature increases. Solubility is also affected by particle size; the finer the particle, the more soluble lime becomes. Lime typically comes in two forms: CaC03 (calcium hydroxide lime) and Ca(OH)2·Mg(OH)2 (dolomitic lime). It is important to note that in the fertilizer industry, when we say “lime,” we are actually referring to ground-up “limestone.” Pure “lime” has the chemical formulas CaO or Ca(OH)2; both of which are purified in thermolytic reactions. Pure lime is extremely soluble, hence it forms the basis of concrete products. Before applying lime to your soil, perform a soil pH test first. When applying lime, make sure to water it thoroughly into the soil, as again, limestone is not very soluble.  
TANK MIXING, BROADCAST SPRAYING, & FERTIGATION: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT NUTRIENT CROSS-REACTIONS
For those who prefer liquid fertilizers and soil amendments, it is important to note that regardless of the relative solubility of the ingredients you use, some ingredients simply don’t mix well with others (this is chemistry 101). When ionic compounds dissolve in water, the ions disassociate. For example, when table salt (NaCl) dissolves in water, the Na+ and Cl- ions split apart from each other. In nature, pure sodium is highly reactive, and pure chlorine gas is deadly, however when dissolved in water, they are quite safe. When two different kinds of salts are dissolved in water, it is possible for the ions to perform a double replacement reaction, meaning two entirely new compounds are created. Sometimes these new compounds are insoluble, and they immediately precipitate in solution.

Many liquid products will instruct the user to perform a small scale “jar test” when mixing with other liquid products. This is to ensure that precipitates do not form, but also to ensure there are no dangerous cross-reactions. The chart below compares the compatibility of different combinations of chemistries in solution. While most chemistries are compatible, there are three distinct patterns become apparent:
  1. Most nitrates are not compatible with elemental sulfur
  2. Calcium nitrate is only moderately soluble with most compounds
  3. Straight urea doesn’t mix well with some nitrates
Whether mixing nutrients, soil amendments, or pesticides, ALWAYS read and understand the label AND perform a small-scale jar test with new combinations of ingredients before large scale tank mixing. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the product’s manufacturer before proceeding.

Solubility & Compatibility – master these two concepts and your fertilizer programs is sure to give you fantastic results whether your growing turf, ornamentals, trees, or vegetables!

For professional fertilizers, humic and AMP-XC™ enriched products available, please visit TurfCare’s online Product Catalog.
 
For green industry professionals or others interested in ordering Turfcare products, please contact our Customer Service to find a distributor near you.
References:
http://ipm.ucanr.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/winamt.html
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2FBF00011851
https://www.smart-fertilizer.com/articles/iron
https://www.lime.org/documents/lime_basics/lime-physcial-chemcial.pdf
https://www.growcom.com.au/_uploads/LWR/Fertigatoin Compatability and Solubility.pdf
Ecofarmingdaily.com/fertilizer-solubility
http://www2.ca.uky.edu/agcomm/pubs/agr/agr5/agr5.pdf
http://www.grounds-mag.com/mag/grounds_maintenance_dos_donts_tankmixing/

Pictures:
Solubility 01 (solution in beakers) - http://www.chemistryland.com/CHM130FieldLab/Lab5/PourWaterIntoFlask.jpg
Solubility 02 (salt ions in water) - http://www.discoveryexpresskids.com/uploads/2/5/6/9/25695369/3159547_orig.jpg
Solubility 03 (evaoptranspiration) - https://classconnection.s3.amazonaws.com/283/flashcards/723283/jpg/transpiration-21323269065290.jpg
Solubility 04 (xylem & phloem travel) - https://image.slidesharecdn.com/planttransport-120920020944-phpapp01/95/plant-transport-6-728.jpg?cb=1348107136
Solubility 05 (granular fertilizer) - http://okfert.com/wp-content/uploads/granular-fertilizer.jpg
Solubility 06 (liquid fertilizer) - http://www.spraytech.uk.com/ekmps/shops/spraytechuk/images/team-scout-60l-296-p.jpg
Solubility 07 (urea prills) - http://www.etherenterprise.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canstockphoto6814252.jpg
Solubility 08 (humic substances chart) - http://home.fulvicforce.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Humic-substances-classification-1024x770.png
Solubility 09 (EDTA iron) - http://en3img.allhaving.comhttps://www.turfcaresupply.com/upload/3755/o/2a-ferric-sodium_01.jpg
Solubility 010 (liming application) - http://www.dragtimes.com/img-videos/Liquid-Lime-Application-Terra-Gator-8103-Gromes-Plender-drone-only--v-SGzTSBeUMWs.jpg
Solubility 011 (tank mixing) - https://stowacres.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/img_0525.jpg
Solubility 012 (compatibility chart) - http://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=uMGE5AUC&id=0DBABA8CEB6E9169FFD194B7450AA92F455A231B&thid=OIP.uMGE5AUCVHH4xVrltZ6vAQHaEl&mediaurl=http%3a%2f%2fgrowmo.com%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2017%2f03%2fYara-fertilizer-compatibility-chart.png&exph=498&expw=803&q=fertilizer+compatability&simid=608013294072172315&selectedIndex=1&ajaxhist=0

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Turf Care and Beaty Fertilizer Unite for Growth, Innovation, and Increased Value to Customers

April 18, 2025
Turf Care Supply, LLC, a portfolio company of Platte River Equity, has officially acquired Beaty Fertilizer, the industry respected Tennessee-based manufacturer and blender of custom granular and liquid fertilizers, as well as combination products. This strategic move expands Turf Care’s manufacturing footprint, adds new product capabilities, and enhances overall production capacity. “The partnership with Beaty Fertilizer marks a major milestone in our journey and an important step forward in our mission to grow, innovate and lead in our industry,” said Mark Mangan, President of Turf Care. “This acquisition is more than just expansion; it’s a powerful opportunity to strengthen our product offerings, broaden our market reach and provide greater value to our customers. By welcoming Beaty into the Turf Care family, we are reinforcing our commitment to excellence and positioning ourselves for an even brighter future.” “We are excited about this next step in the Beaty Fertilizer story. For almost 50 years, our family and our employees have worked hard to serve customers and communities with pride and heart,” said John Beaty, President of Beaty. “Now, we are embracing an opportunity for growth with Turf Care. With our combined know-how and resources, we’ll keep building on what we’ve worked so hard to create and bring even more value to our customers, employees and partners. We truly believe this partnership will keep the Beaty legacy going strong while opening up new doors for growth and innovation.” Tarun Kanthety, Vice President at Platte River, added, “We believe the acquisition of Beaty Fertilizer represents a strategic step in expanding Turf Care’s footprint and product breadth... as it scales and enhances its value proposition to customers.”

Grub Management: Understanding Life Cycles and Optimal Treatment Timing

April 18, 2025
Root out Grubs, Before they Attack Yours! White grubs, the immature stage of several scarab beetles—including Japanese beetles, masked chafers, May and June beetles, and green June beetles—are a major threat to turfgrass across the Southeast. These beetles follow a complete metamorphosis (egg, grub, pupa, adult), with most species completing their cycle in one year. Eggs are laid in early summer, grubs hatch within two weeks, and begin feeding on turfgrass roots through the late summer and fall. May and June beetles differ slightly, with a two- to three-year life cycle and prolonged feeding as third-instar grubs. Grubs damage turf by severing roots, causing grass to yellow, wilt, or lift easily from the soil. Feeding is typically concentrated in patches and worsens during hot, dry weather. Wildlife digging for grubs can create further turf destruction. Healthy turf may tolerate 5–10 grubs per square foot, but damage becomes evident as populations rise or turf is under stress. Early detection and timing are essential. Scouting begins in late June, shortly after adult beetle activity peaks. Monitoring plants favored by beetles can signal egg-laying is underway. Treatment is most effective when small grubs are active—typically from mid-July through early August. For professional turfgrass managers, insecticides containing imidacloprid (Merit®), chlorantraniliprole (Acelepryn®), or trichlorfon (Dylox®) are the most effective tools. The primary months of preventative application of Acelepryn® is from April to end of May and Merit® from April into July - targeting grubs before they hatch. Curative treatments with Dylox® or similar products are applied July through the fall, when young grubs are feeding and most vulnerable. Always follow label directions for optimal application and safety. Timing may vary slightly by regional seasonal needs. Turf Care Supply has a variety of professional TCS Growstar insecticide fertilizers available to protect your turf and prevent grub damage, before it starts. Click on the button below to view products, contact your sales rep for addition TC Growstar products available.

Platte River Equity - Press Release: Turf Care Supply, LLC Acquires Agri-Nutrients, Inc.

October 9, 2024
Platte River Equity Portfolio Company Turf Care Supply, LLC Acquires Agri-Nutrients, Inc. Brunswick, OH , October 9, 2024 – Platte River Equity (“Platte River”) portfolio company Turf Care Supply, LLC (“Turf Care”) is pleased to announce its acquisition of Agri-Nutrients, Inc. (“Agri-Nutrients”), a manufacturer and blender of custom granular fertilizers for the turf & ornamental (“T&O”) industry. This strategic acquisition provides Turf Care with an established presence in the south-central United States, an enhanced product portfolio and additional manufacturing capacity. “This acquisition represents much more than a business transaction; it is a strategic step forward in expanding our reach and enhancing our customers’ growth. By bringing Agri-Nutrients into the Turf Care family, we are broadening our product portfolio, expanding our market presence and further positioning ourselves as a leader in providing innovative solutions for our customers,” said Mark Mangan, President of Turf Care. “We are excited about joining the Turf Care team,” said Jim Montgomery, President of Agri-Nutrients. “At Agri-Nutrients, our core values center around customer service and product innovation, and we are confident that this combination will allow us to better serve the needs of our customers.” “Platte River welcomes the Agri-Nutrients team to Turf Care. This transaction underscores our long-term commitment to fostering growth through both organic and inorganic initiatives across the Turf Care platform,” said Tarun Kanthety, Vice President of Platte River. “The partnership with Agri-Nutrients strengthens Turf Care’s value-added offering, creating additional growth opportunities across the combined customer base.” B&A Corporate Advisors served as the exclusive financial advisor to Agri-Nutrients. About Agri-Nutrients Founded in 1992 and based in Catoosa, OK, Agri-Nutrients is a manufacturer and blender of custom granular fertilizers for the T&O industry, predominantly selling into the lawn care, sports turf and golf course end markets. About Turf Care Supply Established in 1974, Turf Care Supply is one of the largest formulators and blenders of urea products to the T&O market. Turf Care has a comprehensive product portfolio of fertilizers, combination products (herbicide/insecticide), soil amendments and enhanced efficiency fertilizer ingredients. Turf Care's products are sold to distributors and blenders serving the commercial, residential and golf end markets. Turf Care operates four manufacturing facilities strategically located throughout the eastern U.S. About Platte River Equity Founded in 2006 and based in Denver, CO, Platte River Equity is a private equity firm focused on investments in established lower middle market operating companies within targeted industrial sectors where it has substantial operating and investing experience. Platte River utilizes prudent capital structures in order to invest in future growth opportunities and withstand changing economic environments. The firm also provides significant ongoing support to its portfolio companies through dedicated resources across functional areas. The firm has raised funds with committed capital in excess of $1.6 billion and is currently investing out of its fifth fund. The Platte River team is the largest collective investor across its funds, deeply aligning the firm with its investors and portfolio company management teams.
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