Page 11 - Griffin Gazette - July 2025

Iron Deficiency in Greenhouses:
A Common Challenge

Iron deficiency generally occurs when plants struggle to absorb
enough iron from the media. This condition is often the result of poorly
managed growing media that has high pH, high content of lime, or
low initial nutrient levels that are not replenished with supplemental
sources. With limited root systems and environmental stresses, plants
may exhibit symptoms like interveinal chlorosis – where the veins
remain green but the rest of the leaf turns yellow to light green. If
untreated, the plant’s leaves will become necrotic, and the plant may
ultimately die.

Plantex® Iron Chelates: 3. Mixing and Compatibility: Plantex Iron Chelates are provided
A Solution for Greenhouse Growers as crystalline powder and should be thoroughly mixed with water until
completely dissolved. If spray tank agitation is limited, pre-dissolve
For greenhouse growers, incorporating Plantex® Iron DTPA or EDDHA the product in a pail before adding it to the tank. These chelates can
into their nutrient program ensures the availability of iron even in be used alongside other plant nutrition products. It is best practice to
challenging soil conditions. preform a small jar test to determine compatibility of your desired tank
mix prior to mixing.
• Plantex® Iron DTPA is ideal for slightly acidic to slightly alkaline
conditions, with a pH range of up to 7. This fully DTPA chelated Flexibility and Long-Term Effectiveness
iron of 11% ensures that iron remains in a soluble, plant-available
form, preventing it from binding with other soil compounds. This Plantex® Iron products offer greenhouse growers long-lasting benefits
allows plants to take up iron more efficiently and reduces the risk by providing iron in a form that plants can use over an extended
of deficiency. period. The ortho-ortho isomer in Plantex® Iron EDDHA is particularly
• Plantex® Iron EDDHA is specifically designed for more valuable in maintaining consistent iron availability, ensuring healthy
challenging greenhouse conditions, such as alkaline or lime- plant growth despite adverse soil conditions.
rich media. With 6% iron, fully chelated by EDDHA at a 4.0%
ortho-ortho content, this product provides an extended release Conclusion
of plant-available iron. EDDHA’s ortho-ortho isomer is particularly
effective in overcoming soil pH imbalances and delivering iron Plantex® Iron DTPA and EDDHA are indispensable tools for
where it’s most needed. greenhouse growers looking to prevent and manage iron deficiency in
their crops. By incorporating these highly effective products into their
Application Recommendations nutrient program, growers can ensure their plants have access to one
for Greenhouses of the most necessary nutrients for healthy growth and optimal yields.
Always refer to product labels for proper handling and application
When applying Plantex Iron Chelates in greenhouse systems, it is instructions. Available at Griffins.com
essential to follow proper application methods to achieve the best results.

1. Soil Applications: Mix Plantex Iron Chelate with water and
apply to the root zone with the use of a greenhouse irrigation
systems. For instance, to achieve the desired rate of 4 ounces of
Plantex Iron per 100 gallons of water, create a stock solution by
mixing 4 ounces of your desired Plantex Iron per gallon of water.
Set the injector ratio to 1:100 to achieve optimal distribution.
2. Foliar Applications: A thorough foliar spray can also be
effective in providing iron directly to the plant’s leaves. For best
results, apply a fine mist to cover the foliage evenly.

GRIFFIN GAZETTE 2025 | 11