Chelated Micronutrients (Foliar Application)

What Are Chelated Micronutrients - and Why They Matter in Modern Agriculture

Even after applying regular micronutrients, do your crops still show yellowing leaves, poor fruit set, or stunted growth? That's because essential elements like iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn) and copper (Cu) often get locked in the soil and become unavailable to plants.

Chelated micronutrients solve this problem. In these fertilizers, each metal ion is bound to a special organic molecule called a chelate - forming a ring-like "claw" structure that protects the nutrient and keeps it soluble. This ensures the micronutrient remains readily available for plant uptake even in challenging soil conditions.

At Ases Chemical Works, our Chelated Micronutrient Range is formulated specifically for foliar application, helping farmers achieve quicker correction of deficiencies and better yields.

How Chelation Works

The term chelate comes from the Greek word chēlē, meaning claw - because the chelating molecule grips the nutrient ion tightly, shielding it from reactions that would otherwise make it unavailable.

For example, in alkaline or calcareous soils, micronutrients can react with hydroxide (OH⁻) or carbonate (CO₃²⁻) ions and precipitate. Chelation prevents this, keeping the nutrient in a plant-available form.

Common chelating agents include EDTA, DTPA, and EDDHA, each designed to maintain stability under different soil pH levels.

Benefits of Using Chelated Micronutrients

· Improved nutrient uptake - Chelated forms are easily absorbed through leaves and roots.

· Effective in high-pH or calcareous soils - Chelates stay available where normal micronutrients fail.

· Faster deficiency correction - Foliar sprays deliver nutrients directly to plant tissues.

· Reduced nutrient loss - Chelates minimize fixation or precipitation losses.

· Better crop performance - Promotes greener foliage, stronger roots, and higher yields.

· Cost-effective - Higher efficiency means you need smaller doses compared to conventional salts.

Application Guide: Foliar, Soil, or Fertigation

Chelated micronutrients are suitable for both foliar and soil application. For quick results, foliar spray is preferred, especially during critical growth stages.

Best Practices:

• Apply during early morning or late evening for maximum absorption.
• Use recommended dosage; avoid overuse to prevent toxicity.
• Ensure good leaf coverage and fine spray mist.
• Avoid mixing with highly alkaline or acidic fertilizers without compatibility testing.
• Always follow label instructions and consult your agronomist for specific crop needs.

Tip for Indian farmers: In alkaline Indian soils (pH > 7), non-chelated micronutrients often get fixed. Foliar use of chelated forms (especially Fe, Zn, and Mn) gives rapid results and visible crop improvement.

Choosing the Right Chelated Micronutrient

Why Choose Ases Chemical Works

• Complete Range: EDTA-chelated Iron, Zinc, Copper, Manganese, Magnesium, Calcium, and multi-micronutrient blends.
• Made for Indian Agriculture: Formulated for local soils and climatic conditions.
• High Solubility & Purity: Fully water-soluble powders and liquids for easy foliar spraying.
• Proven Quality: Tested for consistent performance and bioavailability.
• Trusted by Farmers Nationwide: Backed by decades of expertise and agronomic support.

Browse the Chelated Micronutrient Range

Select from our complete collection of chelated micronutrient fertilizers below - available for foliar application across a wide variety of crops.

Popular Searches

Agro Nutrients | Chelated Micronutrients | Single Micronutrients | Macronutrients | Agro Chemicals | Plant Growth Regulators.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What is the difference between chelated and non-chelated micronutrients?

Non-chelated micronutrients are simple salts that easily react in soil and become unavailable. Chelated micronutrients are protected by organic molecules that keep them soluble and easily absorbed by plants.

Q2. Why should I use chelated micronutrients?

They are more efficient, faster-acting, and particularly useful in high-pH or calcareous soils where normal micronutrients get fixed.

Q3. Can I mix chelated micronutrients with pesticides or NPK fertilizers?

Yes, in most cases, but always do a jar test before tank mixing and follow product-specific compatibility instructions.

Q4. How often should I apply chelated micronutrients?

Typically, 2-3 foliar sprays per crop cycle depending on deficiency level, crop type, and growth stage.

Q5. Are chelated micronutrients cost-effective?

Although slightly more expensive per kg, their high efficiency and faster uptake deliver better yield response and overall cost savings.