4/5/2024 - By Harrell's

Saving labor for growers is one of the many advantages of utilizing POLYON® controlled-release fertilizer in your plants. This article will focus on that ability to save growers labor and time off their overall applications. Read on to see how.

Saving Labor Through Smart Product Selection

Labor costs represent a substantial portion of operational expenses in horticulture. As these costs continue to rise, and quality labor becomes scarcer, it’s imperative to optimize labor utilization. Selecting the right fertilizer plays a crucial role in achieving this goal.

Consider the composition of fertilizer blends. Not all components in a bag of fertilizer contribute equally to plant nutrition, and much does not at all. Often, a significant portion consists of filler material with no nutritional value. By reevaluating and customizing fertilizer blend ingredients, horticulture professionals can maximize the nutrition supplied to their plants over the growing season and ensure longer, steadier feeding with less hands required. So, what are a few examples of how product selection can enhance labor efficiency?

Saving Labor Through Sparging

Fertilizer sparging presents another avenue for improving labor efficiency. This technique involves applying a thin coating of material to the exterior of a fertilizer substrate, effectively combining multiple agronomic inputs in a single application. This approach streamlines the application process, reducing the time and effort required for multiple applications. Read more about fertilizer sparging in depth here.

Currently, growers only have the option to sparge their POLYON blend with Talstar® insecticide with more options on the way, so make sure you stay in touch with your Harrell's Rep and keep an eye on our website for any new sparging options.

Saving Labor Through Tailored Nutrient Release

One of the remarkable features of POLYON® controlled-release fertilizer is its ability to provide consistent nutrient release over extended periods. By adjusting the coating thickness during manufacturing, horticulture professionals can customize nutrient release longevity to match specific growth requirements. This precise control over nutrient release ensures healthier plants, better equipped to withstand stressors, resulting in sustained growth over the season.

With control over coating thickness and release length, following your application, POLYON is able to last anywhere from a few weeks to 6 months with no dips in release or leaching to worry about. All this to say growers can rest assured that their plants are receiving nutrients over time without the need for more applications and, in turn, reducing labor needs.

Saving Labor Through Environmental Benefits

Efficient fertilizer application not only saves labor but also minimizes environmental impact. Nitrogen loss through volatilization, leaching, and denitrification poses significant environmental concerns. By selecting appropriate fertilizer formulations, such as POLYON, and application methods, horticulture professionals can mitigate nitrogen losses, reducing environmental harm while optimizing program efficiency. The less hits your environment is taking, the less hands required to bring it back to health.

Reach Out to Your Harrell’s Representative

In the quest for operational efficiency, horticulture professionals can rely on the expertise of their local Harrell's Representative. These seasoned professionals stand ready to provide guidance on optimizing fertilizer programs, leveraging technologies like POLYON® to enhance labor efficiency and achieve superior results.

In conclusion, POLYON® controlled-release fertilizer offers horticulture professionals a powerful tool for maximizing labor efficiency and achieving exceptional plant outcomes. By embracing innovative solutions and strategic partnerships, growers can navigate the complexities of modern horticulture with confidence and success. Reach out to your Harrell's Representative today to unlock the full potential of your fertilizer program.

Products mentioned and their trademarking companies:

POLYON® controlled-release fertilizer – Harrell’s
Talstar® - FMC