David M. Kopec, Extension Turfgrass Specialist
Sometimes lawns are damaged or have problem sites which need quick repairs. Included in this issue of Turf Tips is a recipe to make a "home-made" brew that contains all essential nutrients for rapid regrowth to problem areas. The fertilizers used in this recipe are industrial grade quality. There is no need to spend extra money for laboratory grade products. However, to get the right compound and for the recipe to work, you must use the products listed. Secondly, you must add the proper amounts. Using the fertilizer solution on problem areas should result in quick fill in and good regrowth. Once you have achieved this, go back to your regular program. Listed below is the recipe and instructions.
HOW TO MAKE A LIQUID FERTILIZER SOLUTION
FOR DAMAGED/WEAK AREAS OF TURF
Product Formula Analysis Ounces/50 gallons
1. Potassium Nitrate KNO3 (13.75-0-44) 3.6 ounces
2. Calcium Nitrate Ca(NO3)2 (15.5-0-0) 8.5 ounces
3. Potassium Phosphate KH2Po4 (0-53-34) has 9.5
ounces
4. Magnesium Sulphate MgSo4 (0-0-0) has 11% Mg 3.6 ounces
and 13% Sulphur
5. Sequestrene 138 ----- (from Ciba Geigy) 0.25 ounce
Iron Chelate
6. Soluble Trace Element Mix ----- (S.T.E.M.) from Peters 1/4 tsp.
only
Fill a 50 gallon waste container with 25 gallons of water. Add the first three products to the container and stir. Add products 5 and 6 and stir again. Mix product 4 in a five gallon pail of hot water, stir until dissolved and add to the container. Top off the waste container with water to 50 gallons.
After you mix the solution, apply by hand watering approximately 1/4-1/2 inches of the fertilizer solution. Apply the solution every other day for 10-12 days and the turf will respond quickly.
If you have a gram scale, multiply ounces by 29, and this will give you the same amount of fertilizer needed in grams/50 gallons.
**Products are not endorsed, nor is exclusion implied. Products are selected to meet specific nutrient ratios for a total and complete nutrient solution**
Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, James A. Christenson, Director, Cooperative Extension, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, The University of Arizona. The University of Arizona is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution. The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation in its programs and activities.