What Chemicals Are Commonly Used in the Farming Industry?
Chemicals are now being used everywhere, and the farming industry is no exception. Along with fertilizers, many chemicals are applied on farms, not to harm but to enhance crop health and yield. ACI’s chelating chemicals, for instance, bind to essential micronutrients, ensuring better absorption by plants. If you’re interested in learning more about the various chemicals used in farming, you’re in the right place.
Chemicals Used in Farming
The most common chemicals are chelating chemicals. Here are a few common chelating agents.
#1 – EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid)
EDTA is a very popular chemical used in chelated micronutrient fertilizers. This chemical binds to the metal ions and improves plant uptake. Because it binds with the metal ions, the fertilizers don’t degrade when added to the soil.
EDTA can help improve soil fertility, soil nutrition and plant nutrient uptake. Micronutrient fertilizers must include this, as they contain many essential elements, such as iron, magnesium, sulphur and others.
#2 – DTPA (Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic Acid)
Just like EDTA, DTPA, or Diethylenetriaminepentacetic acid, is used in micronutrient fertilizers. This chemical binds with the iron and manganese ions and improves the soil’s pH. If the soil is a bit alkaline, then this chemical works very well.
Also, DTPA is more suitable for liquid fertilizers than solid fertilizers. It must be diluted in water in the recommended dilution ratio. DTPA is proven to improve plant nutrition uptake more than other chelated micronutrients.
#3 – Formate
Formate is nothing but the salt of Formic Acid, which works as the soil’s carbon source. If the soil has low carbon and the microorganisms are not surviving, then Formate or Formic Acid is a perfect option. It’s an organic chemical that works well by providing carbon to the microorganisms. It helps improve the overall quality of the soil.
#4 – NTA (Nitrilotriacetic Acid)
When farm soil is nutrient-deficient, the use of NTA or Nitriletriacetic acid is recommended. It’s not commonly used due to long-term environmental issues, but it works perfectly fine in improving fertilizer uptake. Just like other chelating agents, this chemical works by binding to the micronutrient ions and helping crops have better nutrition.
Final Words
Chemicals are not bad for farming if used cautiously. Micronutrient fertilizers require chelation, and these chemicals work perfectly fine. Chelate manufacturers in India, like ACI, produce high-quality chelates for farmers and even fertilizer manufacturers.