Client News
Zeba® Improves Key Nutrient Uptake In Plants
Zeba.com
October 2008
Although Zeba may be first thought of as a water management tool, new research is confirming its role in transporting key nutrients to crops.
Research results conducted by A.V. Laboratories in Othello, Wash., indicate improved nitrogen and phosphorus uptake in both Russet and Umatilla potato petiole samples from commercial field trials where Zeba-treated portions of the field were compared to adjacent untreated areas.
How much improvement? In both varieties, %P measurements were about 20 percent higher from late June through early August, and more moderate improvements in N03-N.
The nutrient results did not surprise Dale Osgood, who has operated Agri-Check Laboratories in Umatilla, Oregon, for 32 years.
"The product is doing what it is supposed to do. It is keeping water and water-soluble nutrients available where you put it. The measurements are showing that the plants are taking it up."
Phosphorus is essential for plant growth but the nutrient is immobile in the soil and must be maintained in the root zone for optimum results.
Osgood explained, "The phosphorus findings are more important because it's harder to maintain than nitrogen. When phosphorus levels drop off, the plant stops bulking. If you elevate phosphorus, you'll elevate yield. The treated product is maintaining the phosphorus level for a longer period of time."
The study will continue through the growing season and conclude with post-harvest yield and quality measurements.