1、Effects of Foliar Fertilization: a Review of Current Status and Future
Compared with root fertilization, foliar fertilization, as a supplementary fertilization strategy, can deliver nutrients directly to the target through aerial plant parts, thereby helping to reduce negative impacts on the soil (Bindraban et al. 2015; Fernández and Eichert 2009).
2、The Impact of Fertilizer on the Growth of New Cuttings
While factors such as humidity, temperature, and light play crucial roles in the successful rooting and growth of new cuttings, the use of fertilizer is also a pivotal element that can significantly influence plant development.
3、Use rooting hormones or not—multiple applications may be best©
Rooting hormones can be applied by either basal or foliar methods. Basal methods use either dry power rooting hormones or rooting solutions. Foliar methods use aqueous K-IBA rooting solutions on leafy cuttings in the growing state. Traditionally these methods have been used by one application.
Editorial: Factors affecting the efficacy of foliar fertilizers and the
In the past decades, foliar fertilization has been widely used as a supplementary measure to soil fertilizer application for improvement in crop quality and yield.
Guide to Foliar Fertilization: Best Practices, Dosages, and Benefits
In modern agriculture, foliar fertilization has emerged as a vital technique for enhancing nutrient uptake, especially under conditions where root absorption is compromised. Compared to traditional soil fertilization, foliar feeding offers faster absorption, higher nutrient use efficiency, and more targeted results.
Quick guide to fertilizing plants
Foliar fertilization may be used to correct deficiencies during the growing season, to provide micronutrients such as zinc or iron when soil pH is greater than 7, or to supply nutrients such as potassium and phosphorus in cool spring soils, when plant roots absorb fewer nutrients
How to Fertilize Cuttings: A Complete Guide to Propagating Healthy
Foliar feeding (applying liquid fertilizer to the leaves) is often suggested as a way to nourish cuttings, but research and practice show it is largely ineffective for delivering the major nutrients plants need.
Foliar Fertilizer Application Technology: Precision Application Guide
As a new type of fertilizer absorbed directly through leaves, foliar fertilizer has become an important supplement to root fertilization in modern agriculture.
Foliar Fertilising – The Top 10 Questions
1) Can plants absorb nutrients through their leaves to bypass nutrient uptake through the root system? The answer to this important question was provided in the 1950s by H.B. Tukey & S.H. Wittwer from Michigan State University, USA.
Plant Biostimulants: Importance of the Quality and Yield of
They can be successfully used in both agri- and horticultural crops. The main active substances used in such preparations are humic and fulvic acids, protein hydrolysates, compounds containing nitrogen, seaweed extracts, beneficial fungi, and bacteria.
A rooting agent is a chemical formulation designed to promote plant root growth, typically containing various plant growth hormones and nutritional components. In agricultural production, rooting agents effectively accelerate root development, enhance survival rates, and are particularly crucial for transplanted or relocated plants. foliar fertilizers are sprayed directly onto plant leaves, primarily aimed at facilitating nutrient absorption through leaf surfaces to support overall growth.
I. Definition and Classification of Rooting Agents
Rooting agents primarily consist of plant growth regulators that stimulate root growth and improve the plant’s ability to absorb soil nutrients. Based on their composition, they can be categorized as follows:
- Hormonal Rooting Agents: These contain auxins (e.g., indolebutyric acid) and gibberellins, which promote root formation and elongation.
- Composite Rooting Agents: Formulated with multiple growth regulators to comprehensively enhance root system development.
- Biological Rooting Agents: Derived from natural extracts (e.g., seaweed extracts, mycelial extracts) using biotechnology, offering eco-friendly and safe options.
II. Mechanism of Action of Rooting Agents
Rooting agents function by altering hormonal balance within plants to stimulate root growth. Specifically, their active ingredients trigger cell division and elongation in root tissues, increasing root density and nutrient uptake capacity. Additionally, they regulate water transport and nutrient distribution, fostering healthier, more robust root systems.
III. Can Rooting Agents Be Used as Foliar Fertilizers?
While rooting agents are primarily intended for root promotion, they can occasionally serve as foliar fertilizers. For example, during early growth stages or environmental stress (e.g., drought, high temperatures), spraying diluted rooting agent solutions may enhance root development, thereby improving the plant’s stress resistance and adaptability. Furthermore, the nutritional components in rooting agents can be absorbed through leaves, supporting photosynthesis and nutrient synthesis.
IV. Precautions for Using Rooting Agents as Foliar Fertilizers
When repurposing rooting agents as foliar fertilizers, consider the following:
- Concentration Control: Dilute rooting agents to at least 1000 times their original strength to avoid leaf damage.
- Timing: Apply during peak growth phases or periods of adversity for optimal results.
- Monitor Plant Response: Closely observe plants post-application; discontinue use if abnormalities arise.
- Complement with Other Fertilizers: Combine rooting agents with macronutrient fertilizers (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus) to maximize efficacy.
rooting agents can be used as foliar fertilizers under specific conditions. When doing so, prioritize concentration control, timing, plant monitoring, and synergy with other nutrients. Thoughtful application of rooting agents as foliar fertilizers can optimize nutrient supply and growth conditions, ultimately improving crop yield and quality.

