How do chelated micronutrients differ from non-chelated, and what is their advantage?
• Chelated (“key’-lated”) micronutrients are inorganic micronutrients that have been enclosed by an organic molecule. Chelation increases the availability and mobility of plant micronutrients, reduces micronutrient leaching, and prevents certain micronutrients from being locked-up by inhospitable soil pH levels. When applied as a foliar spray, chelated micros penetrate a leaf’s waxy coating and enter into the plant tissue, where they quickly correct any deficiencies. In contrast, non-chelated micronutrients are not immediately available to plants and take a long time to work. Pound for pound, chelated micros may be more expensive than non-chelated micros, but when it comes to effectiveness they are worth their weight in gold!
