Application of liquid feeds

[jonesypeter]

Hi,

I have noticed that many garden lqiuid feeds say apply around the roots and avoid the leaves. The only exception I have found is Phostrogen which says apply on the foliage as well (but avoid direct sunlight).

Does anyone know the reason for avoidng the leaves, as it is very difficult especially if you are feeding a large area or smaller plants in trays.

Thanks

Peter

[mothhawk]

The only reason I can think of is that the feed might be too strong for foliar feeding, and damage the leaf tissue, particularly on young plants. I use liquid seaweed as a foliar feed and that has done no harm to any of my flowers or veg.

The easiest way to water and not wet leaves is to stand your pots or trays in a bigger tray and fill that, so the pot soaks up water from below. Leave about 30 minutes, then drain away the excess water.

[mothhawk]

Oh, and welcome to the vine, Peter

[Two_Sheds]

Does anyone know the reason for avoidng the leaves

Yes, diseases are easily spread by watering the foliage (blight, for one, is spread rapidly by splashing rain on spud plants).

You also have the problem of most of the water evaporating, rather than going to the roots where it is needed.
Some plants may be scorched from hot sun on wet leaves, although this isn't as common as people think.

[jonesypeter]

Thanks

Thanks for the advice and the warm welcome

Best wishes

Peter Jones