Figure 8. Illustrative overview of fertilizer interventions that exploit possible nutrient delivery and uptake mechanisms in plants.
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In this context, strategies envisioned
for instantaneous nutrient uptake
and to effectively supply onceapplied nutrients for the whole
life cycle of the crop may include
multiple
avenues
(Figure 8).
Coating of seeds with specific
nutrients to enhance early root
growth beneficial for nutrient
uptake, “loading” or “enriching”
seedlings with micronutrients while
in the seedbed, “nutrient plasters
and infusions” to infuse stems of
fruit trees, foliar application with
paint-like adhesive substances to
lengthen the duration of uptake and
“multi-nutrient tablets,” comparable
to a dishwasher tablet, packaged
to contain information like the
specific composition with the right
amount for a specific crop and area,
are just some examples. These
products ease decision-making and
application, helping to overcome
logistical challenges and reducing
economic and environmental risk.
Devices to effectively administer
the fertilizers to the crop plants,
like deep placement applicators,
stem infusions and foliar sprays,
are essential to reduce labor
requirement and increase labor
productivity.