Nutritional recommendations for

TOMATO
in open-field, tunnels and greenhouse
Botanical name: Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. Synonyms: tomate; pomodoro

Contents:
1 About the crop .....................................................................................................2 1.1 Growth patterns ............................................................................................. 2 1.2 Growth stages ................................................................................................ 3 1.3 Fruit development .......................................................................................... 3 1.4 Crop uses ...................................................................................................... 3 Growing conditions..............................................................................................4 2.1 Growing method............................................................................................. 4 2.2 Soil type ........................................................................................................ 4 2.3 Climate .......................................................................................................... 4 2.4 Irrigation ....................................................................................................... 4 2.5 Specific sensitivities ....................................................................................... 5 Plant nutrition......................................................................................................7 3.1 Dynamics of nutritional requirements ............................................................... 7 3.2 Main functions of plant nutrients ...................................................................... 9 3.3 Nutrient deficiency symptoms ........................................................................ 12 3.4 Leaf analysis standards ................................................................................. 21 3.5 Overall nutritional requirements ..................................................................... 22 Fertilization recommendations..........................................................................23 4.1 Soil grown tomatoes ..................................................................................... 23 4.1.1 Haifa NutriNet web software for Nutrigation programs...................... 23 a. Base-dressing ................................................................................. 23 b. Nutrigation .................................................................................. 24 4.1.2 Poly-Feed water-soluble NPK fertilizers ............................................... 26 4.1.3 Multicote Agri controlled release fertilizers........................................... 26 4.1.4 Foliar nutrition.................................................................................... 27 4.2 Soilless-grown tomatoes................................................................................ 28 4.2.1 Straight fertilizers ............................................................................... 28 4.2.2 Poly-Feed water-soluble NPK fertilizers ............................................... 33

Appendix I: Nutrigation (fertigation) .................................................................................................. 25 Appendix II: Plant analysis guide ........................................................................................................... 35 Appendix III: Haifa specialty fertilizers .................................................................................................. 36 Appendix IV: Conversion tables .............................................................................................................. 47 Appendix V: Recommendations from Mexico (in Spanish)...................................................................... 48

1. About the crop

1.1 Growth patterns
Tomato cultivars may be classified into three groups by their growth patterns, which are recognized by the arrangement and the frequency of leaves and the inflorescence on the stem. a) Indeterminate growth the main and side stems continue their growth in a continuous pattern. The number of leaves between inflorescence is more or less constant, starting from a specific flowering set (Fig. 1a). Cultivars of indeterminate growth are usually grown as greenhouse or staked tomatoes. b) Determinate growth the main and side stems stop growth after a specific number of inflorescences that varies with the specific cultivar (Fig. 1b). Processing tomatoes are often belong to determinate cultivars. c) Semi-determinate growth - branches stop growth with an inflorescence, but this usually occurs at an advanced growth stage. Cultivars of this group are usually grown as out-door, non-staked tomatoes. Table 1: Number of leaves between inflorescence in different growth patterns No. of leaves before inflorescence Indeterminate Determinate 6-14 4-6 5-7 2-3 3-5 0-1

1st inflorescence 2nd inflorescence 3rd and further inflorescences

Figure 1a: Indeterminate type of tomato growth

Figure 1b: Determinate type of tomato growth

1.2 Growth stages

Growth stages of plants, in very general terms, can be split into four periods: Establishment from planting or seeding during vegetative growth until first flower appears. From first flowering to first fruit set From fruit ripening to first harvest From first harvest to the end of last harvest. These growth periods also represent different nutritional needs of the plant (see section 3.1). The duration of each stage may vary according to growing method, variety characteristics and climatic conditions (Table 2). Table 2: A typical example of a growth cycle in central Israel by growth stages Variety Growing method Number days to first flowering Number days to first harvesting Growth stage Planting Vegetative First flowering First fruit set Fruit growth Starting harvest - until end of last harvest VF121 Greenhouse 30 65 Stage duration (days) 1 14 15 10 20 21-145

Crop age (days) 1 15 30 40 60 81-210

1.3 Fruit development

After fruit setting, fruit ripens over a period of 45 - 70 days, depending upon the cultivar, climate and growth conditions. The fruit continues growing until the stage of green ripeness. Three fruit developmental stages are noted. Ripening occurs as the fruit changes color from light green to off-white, pink, red, and finally dark red or orange. Depending on the distance and time to market, harvest may occur anytime between the pink to dark red stage, the later stages producing more flavorful fruit. Table 3: Stages of fruit ripening Stage Breaker Pink Red Description Red stains appear on fruit skin Tomato turns pink, not yet ready for consumption The tomato is red and completely ripe for consumption

1.4 Crop uses

Tomatoes are consumed fresh, and are being processed to pickles, sauce, juice and concentrated pastes.

2. Growing conditions
2.1 Growing method
Soil or soilless, protected crop (greenhouse or high plastic tunnel) or open field.

2.2 Soil type

Tomatoes can be grown on soils with a wide range of textures, from light, sandy soils to heavy, clay soils. Sandy soils are preferable if early harvest is desired. Favorable pH level: 6.0-6.5. At higher or lower pH levels micronutrients become less available for plant uptake.

2.3 Climate
Temperature is the primary factor influencing all stages of development of the plant: vegetative growth, flowering, fruit setting and fruit ripening. Growth requires temperatures between 10C and 30C. Table4: Temperature requirements during different growth stages: Growth stage Germination Vegetative growth Fruit setting (night / day) Formation of lycopene Formation of carotene Temperature (0C) Minimum Maximum Optimal 11 34 16-29 18 32 21-24 10 / 18 20 / 30 13-18 / 19-24 10 30 21-24 10 40 21-32

Light intensity is one of the major factors affecting the amounts of sugars produced in leaves during the photosynthesis, and this, in turn, affects the number of fruits that the plant can support, and the total yield.

2.4 Irrigation
Tomato plants are fairly resistant to moderate drought. However, proper management is essential to assure high yield and quality. The water requirement of outdoor grown tomatoes varies between 4000 - 6000 m/ha. In greenhouses up to 10,000 m3/ha of water are required. 70% or more of the root system are in the upper 20 cm of the soil. Therefore, a drip system equipped with a fertigation device is advisable. On light soils or when saline water is used, it is necessary to increase water quantities by 20% - 30%. Water requirements will differ at various growth stages. The requirement increases from germination until beginning of fruit setting, reaching a peak during fruit development and then decreasing during ripening. Mild water stress during fruit development and ripening has a positive effect on fruit quality: firmness, taste and shelf-life quality, but may result in smaller fruit. Late irrigation, close to harvesting, may impair quality and induce rotting.

Water shortage will lead to reduced growth in general and reduced uptake of calcium in particular. Calcium deficiency causes Blossom End Rot (BER) (see page 15). On the other hand, excessive irrigation will create anaerobic soil conditions and consequently cause root death, delayed flowering and fruit disorders. Water quality: Tomatoes tolerate brackish water up to conductivity of about 2-3 mmho/cm. Acidic (low pH) irrigation water is undesirable, as it might lead to the dissolution of toxic elements in the soil (e.g. Al3+).

2.5 Specific sensitivities of the tomato plant

Sensitivity to soil-borne diseases Tomatoes are prone to soil-borne diseases caused by fungi, viruses or bacteria. Therefore it is recommended to avoid growing tomatoes on plots that used for other sensitive crops (peppers, eggplants, Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, cotton, soybeans and others) on recent years. A regime of 3-year rotation between small grains and tomatoes is recommended. Sensitivity to salinity Under saline conditions, sodium cations compete with the potassium cations for the roots uptake sites, and chloride competes for the uptake of nitrate-nitrogen and will impede plant development (Fig.2) and reduce yield. Figure 2: Inverse relationship between top dry weight and concentration of plant tissue chloride the higher the chloride in the plant composition, the lower its dry weight.
Top dry weight (g)

22 20 18 16 14 12 10 8 0 20 40
Cl (mg/g)

60

80

100

Salinity will result in a potassium deficiency in the tomato plants, leading to a low fruit number per plant. Corrective measures under such conditions must include the following steps: Abundant application of potassium, as this specific cation can successfully compete with the sodium, and considerably reduce its uptake and the resulting negative effects. (Fig. 3) Abundant application of nitrate, as this specific anion successfully competes with chloride, and markedly reduces its uptake and adverse effects. Also, calcium helps suppressing the uptake of sodium. When sufficient calcium is available, the roots prefer uptake of potassium to sodium, and sodium uptake will be suppressed.

Figure 3: Multi-K potassium nitrate reverses the adverse effects of salinity in greenhouse tomatoes (Source: Satti et Al. 1994)
Yield (ton/ha)

400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Montecarlo Pearson Salinized Salinized + Multi-K

Salination of the nutrient solution markedly decreased dry weight of the plant, fruit size and plant height. The addition of 4 or 8 mM Multi-K potassium nitrate to the salinized nutrient solution markedly increased EC values of the nutrient solution but reversed the said adverse effects caused by the NaCl. Several parameters were improved even over the control as a direct result of the treatment with Multi-K, i.e., fruit size and plant height (Fig. 4). Figure 4: The effect of salinity and Multi-K potassium nitrate on vegetative parameters and fruit size in Pusa ruby greenhouse tomatoes.

100 Control. EC=1.3 dS/m 80 NaCl (50mM). EC=5.5 NaCl + K (4mM). EC=6.8 NaCl + K (8 mM). EC=7.5 60

40
226 278 181 238

20

0
Plant DW (g) Fruit size (g) Plant height (cm)

Zinc improves tolerance to salt stress Zinc nutrition in plants seems to play a major role in the resistance to salt in tomato and other species. Adequate zinc (Zn) nutritional status improves salt stress tolerance, possibly, by affecting the structural integrity and controlling the permeability of root cell membranes. Adequate Zn nutrition reduces excessive uptake of Na by roots in saline conditions. Sensitivity to calcium deficiency Tomatoes are highly sensitive to calcium deficiency, which is manifested in the Blossom-End Rot (BER) symptom on the fruits. Salinity conditions severely enhance BER intensity. Recently, it was found that manganese (Mn) serves as antioxidant in tomato fruit, hence its application to tomatoes grown under salinity can alleviate BER symptoms in the fruits. Special care must be taken to avoid growing conditions, which enhance BER phenomenon.

3. Plant nutrition
3.1 Dynamics of nutritional requirements
Nitrogen and potassium uptake is initially slow but rapidly increases during the flowering stages. Potassium is peaking during fruit development, and nitrogen uptake occurs mainly after the formation of the first fruit. (Figs. 5 and 6). Phosphorus (P) and secondary nutrients, Ca and Mg, are required at a relatively constant rate, throughout the life cycle of the tomato plant. Figure 5: The uptake dynamics of the macro- and the secondary nutrients by a tomato plant
(Source: Huett, 1985)

Uptake rate (g/plant)

16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 0 5 10
Weeks Transplanting Vegetative growth Flowering & Fruit-set Harvest

N P K Ca Mg

15

20

Figure 6: Daily uptake rates of plant nutrients by processing tomatoes yielding 127 T/ha
(Source: B. Bar-Yosef . Fertilization under drip irrigation) Uptake rate 10 (kg/ha/day) 9

N P2O5 K2O

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0 10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100 110 120 130 140 150

Days after planting

As can be seen in figures 5 and 6, the greatest absorption of nutrients occurs in the first 8 to 14 weeks of growth, and another peak takes place after the first fruit removal. Therefore, the plant requires high nitrogen application early in the growing season with supplemental applications after the fruit initiation stage. Improved N use efficiency and greater yields are achieved when N is applied under polyethylene mulches via a drip irrigation system. At least 50 % of the total N should be applied as nitrate-nitrogen (NO3- ). The most prevalent nutrient found in the developed tomato plant and fruit is potassium, followed by nitrogen (N) and calcium (Ca). (Figures 7 and 8) Figure 7: Element composition of a tomato plant
(Atherton and Rudich, 1986)

CaO 25% MgO 7% K2O 39%

N 25% P2O5 4%

Figure 8: Element composition of a tomato fruit

(Atherton and Rudich, 1986)

N 29%

MgO 3%

CaO 6%

P2O5 5% K2O 57%

3.2 Main functions of plant nutrients

Table 5: Summary of main functions of plant nutrients: Nutrient Nitrogen (N) Phosphorus (P) Potassium (K) Calcium (Ca) Sulphur (S) Magnesium (Mg) Iron (Fe) Manganese (Mn) Boron (B) Zinc (Zn) Copper (Cu) Molybdenum (Mo) Functions Synthesis of proteins (growth and yield). Cellular division and formation of energetic structures. Transport of sugars, stomata control, cofactor of many enzymes, reduces susceptibility to plant diseases. A major building block in cell walls, and reduces susceptibility to diseases. Synthesis of essential amino acids cystin and methionine. Central part of chlorophyll molecule. Chlorophyll synthesis. Necessary in the photosynthesis process. Formation of cell wall. Germination and elongation of pollen tube. Participates in the metabolism and transport of sugars. Auxins synthesis. Influences in the metabolism of nitrogen and carbohydrates. Component of nitrate-reductase and nitrogenase enzymes.

Nitrogen (N) The form in which N is supplied is of major importance in producing a successful tomato crop. The optimal ratio between ammonium and nitrate depends on growth stage and on the pH of the growing medium. Plants grown in NH4+ -supplemented medium have a lower fresh weight and more stress signs than plants grown on NO3- only. By increasing the ammonium nitrate rates, the EC increases and consequently the yield decreases. However, when doubling the rate of Multi-K potassium nitrate, the EC increases without adverse effect on the yield that increases as well (Table 6).

Table 6: The effect of nitrogen form (NO3- and NH4+) on tomato yield - showing the advantages of nitrate-nitrogen over ammoniacal nitrogen. (source: U. Kafkafi et al. 1971) NO3- : NH4+ ratio 100 : 70 : 30 63 : 37 59 : 41 100 : N g/plant Multi-K Ammonium potassium nitrate Nitrate 6.3 6.3 4.4 6.3 8.7 6.3 13.2 12.6 EC (mmho/cm) 1.7 2.4 2.9 3.5 3.1 Yield (kg/plant) 2.5 1.98 1.20 1.00 3.43

Potassium (K) Ample amounts of potassium must be supplied to the crop in order to ensure optimal K levels in all major organs, mainly due to the key role K plays in tomatoes: 1. Balancing of negative electrical charges in the plant As a cation, K+ is THE dominant cation, balancing negative charges of organic and mineral anions. Therefore, high K concentration is required for this purpose in the cells. 2. Regulating metabolic processes in cells Main function is in activating enzymes - synthesis of protein, sugar, starch etc. (more than 60 enzymes rely on K). Also, stabilizing the pH in the cell at 7 - 8, passage through membranes, balancing protons during the photosynthesis process. 3. Regulation of osmotic pressure Regulating plants turgor, notably on guard cells of the stomata. In the phloem, K contributes to osmotic pressure and by that transporting metabolic substances from the source to sink (from leaves to fruit and to nurture the roots). This K contribution increases the dry matter and the sugar content in the fruit as well as increasing the turgor of the fruits and consequently prolonging fruits shelf life. Additionally, potassium has the following important physiological functions: Improves wilting resistance.(Bewley and White ,1926, Adams et al ,1978) Enhances resistance toward bacterial viral, nematodes and fungal pathogens. (Potassium and Plant Health, Perrenoud, 1990). Reduces the occurrence of coloration disorders and blossom-end rot. (Winsor and Long, 1968) Increases solids content in the fruit. (Shafik and Winsor,1964) Improves taste. (Davis and Winsor, 1967)

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Figure 9: The effect of K rate on the yield and quality of processing tomatoes
110 105 100 95 90 85 80 75 70 Yield (ton/ha) Mean fruit weight (g)

kg K2O/ha
0 160 240 320

Lycopene is an important constituent in tomatoes, as it enhances the resistance against cancer. Increasing Multi-K application rates increases lycopene content of the tomato. The function is described by an optimum curve (Fig. 10). Figure 10: The effect of Multi-K rate on lycopene yield in processing tomatoes
Lycopene yield (mg / plant)

1000

800

600

400

200

0 0 5

y = -1.735x2 + 57.473x + 228.676 R2 = 0.53

10 15
K rate (g / plant)

20

25

30

Multi-K was applied, as a source of potassium, either by itself or blended with other N and P fertilizers, to processing tomatoes. The different application methods, side-dressing dry fertilizers or combined with fertigation, were compared in a field trial (Table 7). Multi-K increased the yield (dry matter) and the brix level as can be seen in Figure 11.

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Table 7: Layout of a field trial comparing different Multi-K application methods and rates, as a source of K, combined with other N and P fertilizers: Method of application N-P2O5-K20 kg/ha 1) 10 days prior to transplanting: 65% of N & K rates, and the entire P 2) 26 days after transplanting (initial flowering): 10% of N & K rates 3) 51 days after transplanting (initial fruit-set ): 25% of N & K rates as Multi-K 10 days prior to transplanting: 30% of N, P & K rates, 350 kg/ha of Multi-K in a blend: 12-20-27. During the entire plant development stages, 70% of N-P-K as Multi-K + Soluble NPKs + Multi-P (phos. acid), 12 weekly applications by fertigation 10 days prior to transplanting: 30% of N, P & K rates as 400 kg/ha, a Multi-K in a blend: 12-20-27. During the entire plant development stages, 70% of N-P-K as Multi-K + Soluble NPKs + Multi-P (phos. acid), 12 weekly applications by fertigation

Base-dressing and sidedressing

120-140-260

Base-dressing and Fertigation I

120-140-260

Base-dressing and Fertigation II

160-180-360 (34% higher rate)

Figure 11: The effect of application method and rates of Multi-K potassium nitrate on the dry matter yield and brix level of processing tomatoes cv Peto.
Dry matter yield (ton/ha)
7 6.5 6 5.5 5 4.5 4 3.5 3 Dry Matter Brix Granular Fertigation I- Multi-K Fertigation II- Multi-K

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Calcium (Ca) Calcium is an essential ingredient of cell walls and plant structure. It is the key element responsible for the firmness of tomato fruits. It delays senescence in leaves, thereby prolonging leaf's productive life, and total amount of assimilates produced by the plans. Temporary calcium deficiency is likely to occur in fruits and especially at periods of high growth rate, leading to the necrosis of the apical end of the fruits and a development of BER syndrome.

3.3 Nutrients deficiency symptoms

Tomatoes are rather sensitive to excess or deficiency of both macro- and micro- nutrients. Examples of common deficiencies, particularly in soilless culture, other than those of N and P, are: K deficiency, affecting fruit quality; Ca deficiency, causing blossom-end rot; Mg deficiency, in acid soils and in the presence of high levels of K; and deficiencies of B, Fe and Mn in calcareous soils. Nitrogen The chlorosis symptoms shown by the leaves on Figure 12 are the direct result of nitrogen deficiency. A light red cast can also be seen on the veins and petioles. Under nitrogen deficiency, the older mature leaves gradually change from their normal characteristic green appearance to a much paler green. As the deficiency progresses these older leaves become uniformly yellow (chlorotic). Leaves become yellowish-white under extreme deficiency. The young leaves at the top of the plant maintain a green but paler color and tend to become smaller in size. Branching is reduced in nitrogen deficient plants resulting in short, spindly plants. The yellowing in nitrogen deficiency is uniform over the entire leaf including the veins. As the deficiency progresses, the older leaves also show more of a tendency to wilt under mild water stress and senesce much earlier than usual. Recovery of deficient plants to applied nitrogen is immediate (days) and spectacular. Figure 12: Characteristic nitrogen (N) deficiency symptom

Phosphorus The necrotic spots on the leaves on Fig. 13 are a typical symptom of phosphorus (P) deficiency. As a rule, P deficiency symptoms are not very distinct and thus difficult to identify. A major visual symptom is that the plants are dwarfed or stunted. Phosphorus deficient plants develop very slowly in relation to other plants growing under similar environmental conditions but with ample phosphorus supply. Phosphorus deficient plants are often mistaken for unstressed but much younger plants.

13

Developing a distinct purpling of the stem, petiole and the lower sides of the leaves. Under severe deficiency conditions there is also a tendency for leaves to develop a blue-gray luster. In older leaves under very severe deficiency conditions a brown netted veining of the leaves may develop. Figure 13: Characteristic phosphorus (P) deficiency symptom

Potassium The leaves on the right-hand photo show marginal necrosis (tip burn). The leaves on the left-hand photo show more advanced deficiency status, with necrosis in the interveinal spaces between the main veins along with interveinal chlorosis. This group of symptoms is very characteristic of K deficiency symptoms. Figure 14: Characteristic potassium (K) deficiency symptoms.

The onset of potassium deficiency is generally characterized by a marginal chlorosis, progressing into a dry leathery tan scorch on recently matured leaves. This is followed by increasing interveinal scorching and/or necrosis progressing from the leaf edge to the midrib as the stress increases. As the deficiency progresses, most of the interveinal area becomes necrotic, the veins remain green and the leaves tend to curl and crinkle. In contrast to nitrogen deficiency, chlorosis is irreversible in potassium deficiency. Because potassium is very mobile within the plant, symptoms only develop on young leaves in the case of extreme deficiency.

14

Typical potassium (K) deficiency of fruit is characterized by color development disorders, including greenback, blotch ripening and boxy fruit (Fig. 15). Figure 15: Characteristic potassium (K) deficiency symptoms on the fruit

Calcium These calcium-deficient leaves (Fig. 16) show necrosis around the base of the leaves. The very low mobility of calcium is a major factor determining the expression of calcium deficiency symptoms in plants. Classic symptoms of calcium deficiency include blossom-end rot (BER) burning of the end part of tomato fruits (Fig. 17). The blossom-end area darkens and flattens out, then appearing leathery and dark brown, and finally it collapses and secondary pathogens take over the fruit. Figure 16: Characteristic calcium (Ca) deficiency symptoms on leaves

15

Figure 17: Characteristic calcium (Ca) deficiency symptoms on the fruit

All these symptoms show soft dead necrotic tissue at rapidly growing areas, which is generally related to poor translocation of calcium to the tissue rather than a low external supply of calcium. Plants under chronic calcium deficiency have a much greater tendency to wilt than non-stressed plants.

Magnesium Magnesium-deficient tomato leaves (Fig. 18) show advanced interveinal chlorosis, with necrosis developing in the highly chlorotic tissue. In its advanced form, magnesium deficiency may superficially resemble potassium deficiency. In the case of magnesium deficiency the symptoms generally start with mottled chlorotic areas developing in the interveinal tissue. The interveinal laminae tissue tends to expand proportionately more than the other leaf tissues, producing a raised puckered surface, with the top of the puckers progressively going from chlorotic to necrotic tissue. Figure 18: Characteristic magnesium (Mg) deficiency

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Sulfur This leaf (Fig. 19) shows a general overall chlorosis while still retaining some green color. The veins and petioles exhibit a very distinct reddish color. The visual symptoms of sulfur deficiency are very similar to the chlorosis found in nitrogen deficiency. However, in sulfur deficiency the yellowing is much more uniform over the entire plant including young leaves. The reddish color often found on the underside of the leaves and the petioles has a more pinkish tone and is much less vivid than that found in nitrogen deficiency. With advanced sulfur deficiency brown lesions and/or necrotic spots often develop along the petiole, and the leaves tend to become more erect and often twisted and brittle. Figure 19: Characteristic sulfur (S) deficiency

Manganese These leaves (Fig. 20) show a light interveinal chlorosis developed under a limited supply of Mn. The early stages of the chlorosis induced by manganese deficiency are somewhat similar to iron deficiency. They begin with a light chlorosis of the young leaves and netted veins of the mature leaves especially when they are viewed through transmitted light. As the stress increases, the leaves take on a gray metallic sheen and develop dark freckled and necrotic areas along the veins. A purplish luster may also develop on the upper surface of the leaves. Figure 20: Characteristic manganese (Mn) deficiency

17

Molybdenum. These leaves (Fig. 21) show some mottled spotting along with some interveinal chlorosis. An early symptom for molybdenum deficiency is a general overall chlorosis, similar to the symptom for nitrogen deficiency but generally without the reddish coloration on the undersides of the leaves. This results from the requirement for molybdenum in the reduction of nitrate, which needs to be reduced prior to its assimilation by the plant. Thus, the initial symptoms of molybdenum deficiency are in fact those of nitrogen deficiency. However, molybdenum has also other metabolic functions within the plant, and hence there are deficiency symptoms even when reduced nitrogen is available. At high concentrations, molybdenum has a very distinctive toxicity symptom in that the leaves turn a very brilliant orange. Figure 21: Characteristic molybdenum (Mo) deficiency

Zinc This leaf (Fig. 22) shows an advanced case of interveinal necrosis. In the early stages of zinc deficiency the younger leaves become yellow and pitting develops in the interveinal upper surfaces of the mature leaves. As the deficiency progresses these symptoms develop into an intense interveinal necrosis but the main veins remain green, as in the symptoms of recovering iron deficiency. Figure 22: Characteristic zinc (Zn) deficiency symptoms.

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Boron This boron-deficient leaf (Fig. 23) shows a light general chlorosis. Boron is an essential plant nutrient, however, when exceeding the required level, it may be toxic. Boron is poorly transported in the phloem. Boron deficiency symptoms generally appear in younger plants at the propagation stage. Slight interveinal chlorosis in older leaves followed by yellow to orange tinting in middle and older leaves. Leaves and stems are brittle and corky, split and swollen miss-shaped fruit (Fig. 24). Figure 23: Characteristic boron (B) deficiency symptoms on leaves

Figure 24: Characteristic boron (B) deficiency symptoms on fruits

Copper These copper-deficient leaves (Fig. 25) are curled, and their petioles bend downward. Copper deficiency may be expressed as a light overall chlorosis along with the permanent loss of turgor in the young leaves. Recently matured leaves show netted, green veining with areas bleached to a whitish gray. Some leaves develop sunken necrotic spots and have a tendency to bend downward.

19

Figure 25: Characteristic copper (Cu) deficiency symptoms.

Iron. These iron-deficient leaves (Fig. 26) show intense chlorosis at the base of the leaves with some green netting. The most common symptom for iron deficiency starts out as an interveinal chlorosis of the youngest leaves, evolves into an overall chlorosis, and ends as a totally bleached leaf. The bleached areas often develop necrotic spots. Up until the time the leaves become almost completely white they will recover upon application of iron. In the recovery phase the veins are the first to recover as indicated by their bright green color. This distinct venial re-greening observed during iron recovery is probably the most recognizable symptom in all of classical plant nutrition. Because iron has a low mobility, iron deficiency symptoms appear first on the youngest leaves. Iron deficiency is strongly associated with calcareous soils and anaerobic conditions, and it is often induced by an excess of heavy metals. Figure 26: Characteristic iron (Fe) deficiency symptoms

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3.4 Leaf analysis standards

In order to verify the correct mineral nutrition during crop development, leaf samples should be taken at regular intervals, beginning when the 3rd cluster flowers begin to set. Sample the whole leaf with petiole, choosing the newest fully expanded leaf below the last open flower cluster. Sufficiency leaf analysis ranges for newest fully-expanded, dried whole leaves are: Table 8: Nutrients contents in tomato plant leaves A. Macro and secondary nutrients Conc. in leaves (%) Nutrient N P K Ca Mg S Before fruiting 4.0-5.0 0.5-0.8 3.5-4.5 0.9-1.8 0.5-0.8 0.4-0.8 During fruiting 3.5-4.0 0.4-0.6 2.8-4.0 1.0-2.0 0.4-1.0 0.4-0.8

B. Micronutrients Conc. in leaves (ppm) Nutrient Fe Zn Mn Cu B Mo Before fruiting 50-200 25-60 50-125 8-20 35-60 1-5 During fruiting 50-200 25-60 50-125 8-20 35-60 1-5

Toxic levels for B, Mn, and Zn are reported as 150, 500, and 300 ppm, respectively.

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3.5 Overall nutritional requirements

Table 9: Overall requirements of macro-nutrients under various growth conditions Yield (kg/ha) 80 150 60 100 100 200 120 240 N 241 417 196 303 294 536 328 608 P 2O 5 62 108 50 78 76 139 85 158 K2O 416 724 336 522 508 934 570 1065 CaO 234 374 203 295 279 463 289 491 MgO 67 110 56 84 80 138 86 152

Outdoor Processing Tunnels Greenhouse

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4. Fertilization recommendations
The recommendations appearing in this document should be regarded as a general guide only. The exact fertilization program should be determined according to the specific crop needs, soil and water conditions, cultivar, and the growers experience. For detailed recommendations, consult a local Haifa representative. Disclaimer: Any use of the information given here is made at the readers sole risk. Haifa Chemicals Ltd. provides no warranty whatsoever for "Error Free" data, nor does it warrants the results that may be obtained from use of the provided data, or as to the accuracy, reliability or content of any information provided here. In no event will Haifa Chemicals Ltd. or its employees be liable for any damage or punitive damages arising out of the use of or inability to use the data included.

4.1 Soil-grown tomatoes

4.1.1 Haifa NutriNet web software for Nutigation programs
Haifa fertilization recommendations are available online and can be accessed through Haifas website, www.haifachem.com . Click on Haifa Know-how heading, or directly at: http://www.haifa-nutrinet.com and will enter into NutriNet, a unique software program, that will assist you to workout the recommended fertilizer rates at different growth stages according to the expected yield under your growing conditions. The following is an example of recommendations of open field grown tomatoes on sandy loam soil, as determined by NutriNet, with the assumption of split scheduled fertilization into: a) Base-dressing (pre-plant) fertilizers followed by: b) Nutrigation (fertigation) at different growth stages, on sandy-clay soil when the expected yield is 120 ton/Ha: a) Base-dressing:

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B) Nutrigation (fertigation): Total amount of fertigated fertilizers

Table 10: The total contribution of plant nutrients from each fertilizer as calculated by NutriNet:
Fertilizer Ammonium nitrate 34-0-0 Multi-MAP 12-61-0 Multi-K 13-0-46 Calcium nitrate (26% CaO) Magnesium sulfate (16% MgO) Total

kg/ha 374.4 139.3 1080.4 119.2 112.5 1826

N 123.6 16.7 140.5 17.9

P2O5

K2O

CaO

MgO

85 497 31 18

311

85

497

31

18

Table 11: Recommended nutrient rates per ha per day and per growth stage as calculated by NutriNet:
Phase Days from sowing / planting Planting Vegetative Flowering Fruit set Fruit growth 1 harvest Harvest Harvest Last harvest
st

kg/ha/day N 1 0.57 0.6 0.6 1.2 1.2 2.36 1.78 1.78 P2O5 0 0.14 0.13 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.65 0.48 0.48 K2O 1 0.93 0.93 0.9 1.9 1.8 3.78 2.84 2.85 CaO 0 0.07 0.07 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.24 0.18 0.18 MgO 0 0 0.07 0 0.05 0 0.15 0.1 0.1 Total N 1 8 9 6 24 6 130 89 71 344

kg/ha/phase P2O5 0 2 2 2 6 2 36 24 19 93 K2O 1 13 14 9 38 9 208 142 114 548 CaO 0 1 1 1 2 1 13 9 7 35 MgO 0 0 1 0 1 0 8 5 4 19

1 2-15 16-30 31-40 41-60 61-65 66-120 121-170 171-210

24

Table 12: Recommended fertilizers rates per growth stage

Phase Days from sowing / planting Ammonium nitrate 34-0-0 Planting Vegetative Flowering Fruit set Fruit growth 1 harvest Harvest Harvest Last harvest
st

kg/ha/phase Multi-MAP* 12-61-0 Multi-K * 13-0-46

Mullti-Cal 15.5-0-0 +26CaO

Magnesium sulfate (16% MgO) 0 0 6 0 6 0 50 31 25 113

1 2-15 16-30 31-40 41-60 61-65 66-120 121-170 171-210 Total

3 24 26 18 71 18 382 262 209 374

0 3 3 3 10 3 59 39 31 139

2 28 30 20 83 20 452 309 248 1080

0 4 4 4 8 4 50 35 27 119

* Multi-K = Potassium nitrate Multi-MAP = Mono-ammonium phosphate Multi-Cal = Calcium nitrate

Fertilization and fertigation rates may vary according to cultivar, growing method, climatic conditions, growth stages and expected yield. By using Haifa NutriNet (http://www.haifa-nutrinet.com) program on-line, you may obtain Haifas recommendations most suitable to your growing conditions by selecting the expected yield, growing method and growth stages.

25

4.1.2 Poly-Feed water-soluble NPK fertilizers

Table 13: Fertilization program for processing tomatoes. Expected yield: 50 ton/ha Growth stage Planting to flowering Flowering to fruit set Fruit set to harvest Days 25 30 40 Poly-Feed formula 20-20-20 14-7-21+ 2MgO 14-7-28+ 2MgO Kg/ha/day 8 15 18

Foliar Feeding: To boost growth apply Poly-Feed Foliar Vegetative Booster every 15 days. Volume: 200 L/ha. Concentration: 0.5% - 1%. Table 14: Fertilization program for tomatoes in tunnels. Expected yield: 150 ton/ha Growth stage Planting to flowering Flowering to fruit set Fruit set to 1st harvest 1st Harvest to Last harvest Days 25 20 35 100 Poly-Feed formula 20-20-20 14-7-21+ 2MgO 14-7-28+ 2MgO 14-7-28+ 2MgO Kg/ha/day 8 15 17 18

Table 15: Fertilization program for tomatoes in greenhouse. Expected yield: 160 ton/ha Growth stage Planting to flowering Flowering to Fruit set Fruit set to 1st Harvest 1st Harvest to Last Harvest Days 8 25 30 110 Poly-Feed formula 15-30-15 19-19-19 18-9-27 16-8-32 Kg/ha/day 8 13 17 17 Total kg/ha 64 325 510 1870

To cure and prevent magnesium deficiencies, apply Magnisal by Nutrigation or foliar spray. To cure and prevent calcium deficiencies, apply Multi-Cal by Nutrigation or foliar spray.

4.1.3 Multicote Agri Controlled Release Fertilizer

An N:P2O:K2O ratio of 2:1:3* is recommended, as pre-plant application. This application will take care of the nutritional requirement of the plot for the entire growth season. Multicote Agri granules should be incorporated into the soil, 10cm deep and 10cm away from the planting row. Consult a local Haifa representative for detailed explanations and instructions. Table 16: Multicote Agri application recommendations tomato in greenhouse kg/ha 2,500 - 4,000 Analysis* 17-9-27 Longevity 8 months

* The actual choice of formula should take into account soil type and addition of compost and any other factor that may affect the nutritional status of the soil.

26

4.1.4 Foliar nutrition

Foliar feeding is a fast and highly effective method of supplementing and enriching plant nutrients when needed. Foliar application of Haifa water soluble fertilizers provides needed plant nutrients for normal development of crops when absorption of nutrients from the soil is disturbed, precision-timed foliar sprays are also a fast-acting and effective method for treating nutrient deficiencies. Foliar application of the correct nutrients in relatively low concentrations at critical stages in crop development contributes significantly to higher yields and improved quality. Determine safe foliar applied rate: To verify the safe rate under local conditions, it is advisable to spray recommended rate on a few plants. After 3-4 days check the tested plants for scorching symptoms. Preparation of tank-mix: Dissolve Haifa water-soluble fertilizes in about half of the tank volume, and add to the spray tank. When applying together with crop-protection agents, addition of wetting agents is not necessary. To ensure compatibility of tank-mix components, a small-scale test should be performed prior to actual application. Table 17: Haifa water-soluble fertilizers for foliar application: Fertilizer Haifa-Bonus Multi-MAP Multi-MKP Magnisal

Curing Treatment Potassium deficiency Phosphorus deficiency Phosphorus and potassium deficiency Magnesium deficiency N-P-K and micronutrients deficiency

Recommended concentration 1% - 2% 0.5 % - 1 % 0.5 % - 1 % 0.5 % - 0.75 % 0.75 % - 1.5 %

Poly-Feed

27

4.2 Soilless-grown tomatoes

4.2.1 straight fertilizers There are different growth media with different physical and chemical characteristics. The following are general fertilization recommendations for all soilless growth media. Fertilizer stock solution: Once dissolved, not all fertilizers are inter-compatible with each other. Therefore, they have to be split into two fertilizer tanks: A and B, according to their compatibilities. Fertilizers containing phosphorus (P) or sulfur (S) should be dissolved in Tank A only, while fertilizers containing calcium (Ca) or magnesium (Mg) should be dissolved in Tank B. Chelated micronutrients should be dissolved in Tank B, as well. The concentration of the fertilizers stock solution depends on: 1. The ambient temperature (higher ambient temperature enables higher concentration) 2. The injection rate - how many liters of the fertilizer solution will be injected into each cubic meter (1000 liters) of the irrigated water Dividing the injection capacity by one cubic meter should be the concentration of the fertilizer solution. If, for example, the injector delivers 5 L into each cubic meter of the irrigated water, multiply the amount of fertilizer dissolved in the tank by 200 (1000 L / 5 L = 200).

Examples of fertigation regimes in soilless grown tomatoes: The following example was prepared to fit Dutch conditions (low transpiration and low water EC). Considerable and proportional reduction in the concentration of the macronutrients should be required to offset for lower quality water prevailing in other conditions. Table 18: Nutrition database for tomatoes. Growth medium: rockwool. Parameter EC (mS/cm) N- NH4 N- NO3 P H2PO4 K Ca Mg S, total SO4 Nutrient solution (ppm) 2.6 16.6 223.9 46.5 145.5 371.5 216.5 58.3 140.9 422.8

28

Table 19: Recommended water-soluble fertilizers and their rates, to prepare the above recommended solution: Plant nutrients g/m3 solution Fertilizers g/m3 NO3 NH4 P* K* Ca* Mg* S* Ammonium nitrate 50 8.5 8.5 Multi-K 400 52 152 K2SO4 400 168 60 Multi-Cal 1150 178.2 218.5 MgSO4 600 60 78 Multi-MKP 0 45.4 56 Total 238.7 8.5 45.4 376 218.5 60 138

An Italian system for fertigation management in close-loop soilless culture of tomato are: NO3 200 NH4 14 P* 30 K* 310 Ca* 160 Mg* 35 S* 80

Table 20: Recommended water-soluble fertilizers and their rates to prepare a fertilizer solution for the above Italian system: Plant nutrients g/m3 solution Fertilizers g/m3 NO3 NH4 P* K* Ca* Mg* S* Ammonium nitrate 0 Multi-K 600 78 228 K2SO4 200 84 30 Multi-Cal 850 131.7 161.5 Magnisal 0 MgSO4 350 35 45 Multi-MAP 100 12 27 Multi-MKP 0 Total 209.7 12 EC value should be maintained at ~ 2.07 mS/cm 27 312 161.5 35 75.5

conversion factors: P x 2.29 = P2O5 ; K x 1.20 = K2O ; Ca x 1.40 = CaO ; Mg x 1.66 = MgO ; S x 3.00 = SO4

29

Table 21: Fertilizer recommendations for hydroponic (perlite, rockwool, and NFT) tomatoes in Florida (http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/CV216): Growth stage 1 2 3 4 5 st nd rd th Transplant to 1 cluster to 2 cluster to 3 cluster to 5 cluster to 1st cluster 2nd cluster 3rd cluster 5th cluster termination Final delivered nutrient solution concentration (ppm)** 70 80 100 120 150 50 50 50 50 50 120 120 150 150 200 150 150 150 150 150 40 40 40 50 50 50 50 50 60 60

Nutrient N P K Ca* Mg* S*

*

Ca, Mg, and S concentrations may vary depending on Ca and Mg concentration in water and amount of sulfuric acid used for acidification. ** 1ppm = 1mg/liter Table 22: Recommended water-soluble fertilizers and their rates to prepare a fertilizer solution from transplant to various growth stages as indicated in Table 21: A. From transplant to 1st cluster Fertilizers K2SO4 Multi-Cal MgSO4 Multi-MKP Total B. From 1st to 2nd cluster Fertilizers g/m3 K2SO4 150 Multi-Cal 500 MgSO4 400 Multi-MKP 250 Total g/m3 150 500 400 200 NO3 77.5 45.4 77.5 0 45.4 56 119 95 40 75 NH4 P* K* 63 Ca* 95 40 52 Mg* S* 23

NO3 19.5 77.5

NH4

P*

K* 57

Ca* 95

Mg*

S*

40 56.75 97 0 56.75 70 127 95 40

52 52

conversion factors: P x 2.29 = P2O5 ; K x 1.20 = K2O ; Ca x 1.40 = CaO ; Mg x 1.66 = MgO ; S x 3.00 = SO4

30

C. From 2nd to 3rd cluster Fertilizers g/m3 Multi-K 400 Multi-Cal 500 MgSO4 400 Multi-MAP 180 Total D. From 3rd to 5th cluster Fertilizers g/m3 Multi-K 400 Multi-Cal 500 MgSO4 500 Multi-MAP 180 Total

NO3 52 77.5

NH4

P*

K* 152

Ca* 95

Mg*

S*

40 21.6 129.5 21.6 48.6 48.6 152 95 40

52 52

NO3 52 77.5

NH4

P*

K* 152

Ca* 95

Mg*

S*

50 21.6 129.5 21.6 48.6 48.6 152 95 50

65 65

E. From From 5th cluster to Termination Fertilizers g/m3 NO3 NH4 Multi-K 530 68.9 Multi-Cal 500 77.5 MgSO4 500 Multi-MAP 180 21.6 Total 146.4 21.6

P*

K* 201.4

Ca* 95

Mg*

S*

50 48.6 48.6 201.4 95 50

65 65

Table 23: Recommendations for greenhouse soilless grown tomatoes, in Israel, according to the growing stages (NH4/NO3 ratio=0.1- 0.2): Physiological stage Planting and establishment Flowering Ripening and harvest Concentration in the irrigation solution (dripper) (ppm) N 120-150 150-180 180-200 P* 40-50 40-50 40-50 K* 180-220 220-270 270-300 Ca* 100-120 100-120 100-120 Mg* 40-50 40-50 50-80

conversion factors: P x 2.29 = P2O5 ; K x 1.20 = K2O ; Ca x 1.40 = CaO ; Mg x 1.66 = MgO ; S x 3.00 = SO4

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Table 24: Recommended water-soluble fertilizers and their rates to prepare a fertilizer solution as indicated in Table 16 (above): A. Planting and establishment Fertilizers Multi-K K2SO4 Multi-Cal MgSO4 Multi-MAP Total g/m3 200-300 250 520-600 400-500 150-180 NO3 26-39 0 81-93 0 0 107-132 NH4 0 0 0 0 18-22 18-22 P* 0 0 0 0 41-49 41-49 K* 76-114 105 0 0 0 181-219 Ca* 0 0 99-114 0 0 99-114 Mg* 0 0 0 40-50 0 40-50

B. Flowering Fertilizers Multi-K K2SO4 Multi-Cal Magnisal MgSO4 Multi-MAP Total C. Ripening and harvest Fertilizers Multi-K K2SO4 Multi-Cal Magnisal MgSO4 Multi-MAP Total g/m3 440-500 250 530-600 170 350-650 150-180 NO3 57-65 0 82-93 19 0 0 158-177 NH4 0 0 0 0 0 18-22 18-22 P* 0 0 0 0 0 41-49 41-49 K* 167-190 105 0 0 0 0 272-295 Ca* 0 0 101-114 0 0 0 101-114 Mg* 0 0 0 15 35-65 0 50-80 g/m3 300-430 250 520-600 100 300-350 150-180 NO3 39-56 0 81-93 11 0 0 131-160 NH4 0 0 0 0 0 18-22 18-22 P* 0 0 0 0 0 41-49 41-49 K* 114-163 105 0 0 0 0 219-268 Ca* 0 0 99-114 0 0 0 99-114 Mg* 0 0 0 9 30-35 0 39-44

conversion factors: P x 2.29 = P2O5 ; K x 1.20 = K2O ; Ca x 1.40 = CaO ; Mg x 1.66 = MgO ; S x 3.00 = SO4

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4.2.2 Poly-Feed water soluble NPK fertilizers

Table 25: Recommended composition of nutritional solution for soilless-grown tomatoes A. In temperate or cold climate with low sun radiation and soft water (e.g. North and North-East Europe, North France, UK, Japan, Korea) Concentration in irrigation water (ppm) N 190 P 50 K 310

Ca 150

Mg 45

Recommended Poly-Feed formula 14-10-34+ME

Conc. (kg/m3) 1.1

Some acid and Multi-Cal calcium nitrate should be added to adjust the pH and to complete calcium requirements. B. In hot climate with high sun radiation and hard water (e.g. Middle East, Mediterranean countries) Concentration in irrigation water (ppm) N 170 P 45 K 225

Ca 105

Mg 40

Recommended Poly-Feed formula 17-10-27

Conc. (kg/m3) 1.0

Some acid and Multi-Cal calcium nitrate should be added to adjust the pH and to complete calcium requirements.

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Appendix I: Nutrigation (Fertigation)

Balanced irrigation & fertilization regime ensures optimal nutrition throughout the growth season. Application of top-quality water-soluble fertilizers through the irrigation system is the optimal method for providing balanced plant nutrition throughout the growth season. A balanced Nutrigation regime ensures that essential nutrients are placed precisely at the site of intensive root activity, and are available in exactly the right quantity when plants need them. Evaporation considerations The amount of water required per application can be determined by the coefficient of transpiration and the evaporation data from a class A pan. For example, average evaporation readings in the central part of Israel, expressed in mm/day, are given in table 26: Table 26: Evaporation rates from Class A Pan in central Israel (mm/day) Apr 4.4 May 5.9 Jun 6.8 Jul 6.9 Aug 6.6 Sep 5.7 Oct 4.3 Nov 3.0

Plants, usually, are less influenced than an exposed pan to the prevailing climatic conditions, such as: sun, wind, humidity, etc., and will transpire less water. As an example, the percentage of transpiration by tomatoes, known as transpiration coefficient, is illustrated in Table 27. The coefficient increases according to the growth stage of the plant as the growing season evolves. Table 27: Transpiration coefficients in tomatoes, according to the growth stages. Growth stage Transpiration coefficient Planting Blooming 0.4 Blooming Fruit set 0.6 Fruit set - Harvesting 0.8

The following example of the amount of irrigation water, calculated from data collected on the losses of the evaporation A pan and multiplied by the transpiration coefficient is shown in Table 28. Table 28: Example of water consumption of outdoor grown tomatoes, in Israel. Growth stage Month Evaporation rates, (mm/day) 5.9 6.8 6.9 Transpiration coefficient Water losses* (mm/day) 2.36 4.08 5.52 Required amount of irrigation water (m3 /ha/day) 23.6 40.8 55.2

Blooming May Fruit set June Harvesting July * - via transpiration.

0.4 0.6 0.8

34

If the irrigation cycle is not daily, then the daily amount has to be multiplied by the number of days between irrigation cycles as shown in Table 29. Table 29: Example of required amount of water for out-door grown tomatoes. Growth stage Month Amount of required irrigation per day (m3 /ha) 23.6 40.8 55.2 Irrigation cycle (days) 3 5 4 Amount of water / irrigation per cycle (m3 /ha) 71 204 222

Blooming Fruit set Harvesting

May June July

Appendix II: Plant analysis guide

Nutrient Sufficiency Ranges (source: A & L, Agronomy Handbook, Ankerman & Large, Eds.) N P K Mg Ca S Na % From 3.00 0.30 2.50 0.50 2.00 0.50 0.01 To 6.00 0.80 5.00 1.00 6.00 0.90 0.01 Plant sampling Growth stage Open-field tomatoes Greenhouse tomatoes Prior to or during early bloom stage Prior to or during fruit-set Plant part to sample 3rd or 4th leaf from growing tip Young plants: leaves adjacent to 2nd or 3rd cluster Older plants: leaves from 4th to 6th clusters No. of plants or leaves to sample 20-25 20-25 20-25

B 40 60

Zn 35 50

Mn Fe ppm 100 100 200 200

Cu 8 20

Al 20 200

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Appendix III: Haifa Specialty Fertilizers Teaspoon-Feeding

Innovative Technology for Optimal Plant Nutrition and Maximum Yields
Modern agriculture is continuously striving for maximum yields at minimum production costs while eliminating environmental impact. Teaspoon-Feeding is a revolutionary concept of fertilization that provides plants with balanced nutrition throughout the growth season. Nutrients are provided in measured portions, that exactly or match plant requirements. Teaspoon-Feeding is designed to address plants changing needs during each stage of the growth cycle, ensuring optimal plant development and maximum, high quality yields. HAIFA fertilizers for Teaspoon-Feeding combined with innovative application techniques of Nutrigation, Controlled-Release Nutrition and Foliar Feeding enable precision-controlled composition, quantity, and timing of the nutrient supply that is tailored to the crop and the specific growing conditions. HAIFA is a pioneering company in the development and marketing of innovative fertilization products and techniques that meet the demands of modern agricultural practice, while taking strictest environmental concerns into consideration.

Nutrigation (Fertigation)
Application of top-quality water-soluble fertilizers through the irrigation system is the optimal method for providing balanced plant nutrition throughout the growth season. A balanced Nutrigation regime ensures that essential nutrients are placed precisely at the site of intensive root activity and are available in exactly the right quantity - when plants need them. HAIFA offers a wide range of water-soluble fertilizers for Nutrigation. All products contain only pure plant nutrients and are free of sodium and chloride. Multi-K Comprehensive range of plain and enriched potassium nitrate products Poly-Feed Soluble NPK fertilizers enriched with secondary and micro-nutrients Multi-MAP Mono-ammonium phosphate Multi-MKP Mono-potassium phosphate Multi-Cal Calcium nitrate Magnisal Our original magnesium nitrate fertilizer Chelated micronutrients Multi-Micro VitaPhos-K Precipitation-proof poly-phosphate for soilless Nutrigation Multi-ProteK Systemic PK fertilizer Multi-Pepton Amino-acid nutritional supplement Use Haifa NutriNet and Haifast software to create your optimal Nutrigation regime. See details on HAIFA website.

36

Foliar Feeding
Foliar Teaspoon-Feeding is a fast, highly effective method of providing nutrients when used as a supplement to administering fertilizers through the soil. It is an ideal feeding method under certain growth conditions in which absorption of nutrients from the soil is inefficient, or for use on shortterm crops. Precision-timed foliar sprays are also a fast-acting and effective method for treating nutrient deficiencies. Foliar application of the correct nutrients in relatively low concentrations at critical stages in crop development contributes significantly to higher yields and improved quality. HAIFA offers a selection of fertilizers for foliar application: Haifa-Bonus High-K foliar formulas enriched with special adjuvants for better absorption and prolonged action Poly-Feed Foliar NPK formulas enriched with micronutrients specially designed to enhance the crop performance during specific growth stages Poly-Amin Growth promoting foliar amino-acid preparation Magnisal, Multi-MAP, Multi-MKP, Multi-Cal and Multi-Micro are also suitable for foliar application. HAIFAs innovative Teaspoon-Feeding fertilizer products and modern application methods provide the ideal solution for the nutritional needs of any crop under all growth conditions.

Controlled Release Nutrition

Multicote innovative fertilizers for Teaspoon-Feeding release plant nutrients gradually and steadily according to plants needs throughout the growing season. HAIFAs Multicote polymer-coated fertilizers slowly release plant nutrients into the soil solution at a pre-determined rate. Moisture in the soil is absorbed by the fertilizer granules - dissolving the nutrients inside and releasing them into the root zone. The release rate is determined by the soil temperature, which is also a major factor affecting plant growth rate. Soil type, humidity, PH, and microbial activity do not affect the release rate. A single application of Multicote fertilizers is sufficient to provide balanced nutrition for the duration of the growing season significantly saving labor and costs. Multicote fertilizers ensure maximal uptake by the root system - leaving no excess fertilizer to contaminate the soil or groundwater. HAIFA offers a selection of smart controlled-release fertilizers to suit all crops and growing conditions: Multicote for nurseries and ornamentals; NPK formulae with release longevities of 4, 6, 8, 12 and 16 months Multicote Agri / Multigro for agriculture and horticulture CoteN controlled-release urea for arable crops Multicote Turf / Multigreen for turf

37

Multi-K
Potassium nitrate products Multi-K, Haifa's potassium nitrate, is a unique source of potassium in by its nutritional value, fertilization efficiency and application considerations, and environmental impact. Multi-K contains 100% plant macronutrients potassium (K) and nitratenitrogen (N-NO3). It is free of chloride, sodium and any other plantdetrimental elements. Plants absorb the potassium and the nitrate from Multi-K rapidly, in a balanced manner. This improves the movement of both ions in the plant, enhancing its performance.

Crystalline Multi-K products

Crystalline Multi-K products are fast dissolving and easily integrated in the soil solution. The crystalline form is ideally suited for Nutrigation (fertigation) and foliar application. Nutrigation with Multi-K improves the uptake of potassium and nitrate by the plant roots, and minimizes leaching of nutrients below the root zone. Millions of cultivated acres worldwide have shown the superiority of Multi-K for Nutrigation of high added-value protected crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers, bell-pepper, roses, chrysanthemum, etc. Multi-K products can be mixed with phosphate, magnesium and calcium fertilizers to prepare nutrient solutions with no risk of clogging of the irrigation system. Foliar feeding of fruit crops with Multi-K products results in higher yields and better yield quality. Multi-K retains atmospheric water when sprayed on leaves, thereby extending the absorption period by the leaves. It is free of harmful elements and highly compatible with other plant nutrients and agrochemicals. Combining Multi-K with other agents results in remarkable savings in labor, time and machinery. *for high-K foliar nutrition, Bonus-npK is recommended Multi-K Classic Special grades Multi-K GG Multi-K pHast Multi-K Top 13-0-46 13.5-0-46.2 13.5-0-46.2 13.8-0-46.5 Pure potassium nitrate Greenhouse-grade potassium nitrate Low-pH potassium nitrate Hydroponics-grade potassium nitrate

38

Enriched products Multi-npK 13-5-42 13-3-43 13-2-44 Multi-K Mg 12-0-43+2MgO 11-0-40+4MgO 12-2-43+1MgO 12-2-42+2MgO+0.5Mn 12-0-42+2MgO+0.2B Multi-K Zn 11-0-40+4Zn 12-0-43+2Zn Multi-K S 12-0-46+4.5 SO3 Multi-K B 12-0-44+0.5 B Multi-K ME 12-0-43+Mg+ME

Potassium nitrate enriched with phosphorus

Potassium nitrate enriched with Magnesium

Potassium nitrate enriched with Zinc Potassium nitrate enriched with Sulfate Potassium Nitrate enriched with Boron Potassium nitrate enriched with magnesium and micronutrients

Multi-K prills
For direct soil application (side-dressing) Multi-K Prills Multi-npK Prills Multi-K Mg Prills 13-0-46 13-3-43 13-2-44 12-0-42+2MgO 11-0-39+4MgO Potassium nitrate prills Potassium nitrate enriched with Phosphorus Potassium nitrate enriched Magnesium

Poly-Feed
Water-soluble NPK fertilizers Poly-Feed is a range of fully water-soluble NPK fertilizers, designed to provide complete plant nutrition throughout the growth season. The wide choice of formulae and compositions meets the needs of vegetable crops, fruits and flowers at all types of cropping systems. The benefits of Poly-Feed products: Fully water soluble, safe for use with all irrigation and spraying systems Consists of pure plant nutrients exclusively Free of chloride, sodium, and other detrimental elements Made of high quality ingredients Enriched with high levels of micronutrients Good handling and storage properties, due to the Granular Matrix Technology

39

Poly-Feed GG (Greenhouse Grade)

Soluble NPK fertilizers for Nutrigation and foliar feeding of greenhouse-grown crops Poly-Feed GG products are suitable for use with water of varied quality. All the formulae are enriched with high concentrations of micronutrients. Special formulae for soilless culture are based on ammonium nitrate and have K2O/N ratio and nitrate/ammonium ratio adapted to the conditions prevailing in soilless media. Poly-Feed GG products are easily identified by the red color of both the bag and the crystals.

Poly-Feed Drip
Soluble NPK fertilizers for in Nutrigation (fertigation) of fruit-trees vegetables, and all types of crops grown in open field Poly-Feed Drip formulae are enriched with magnesium and micronutrients. The Granular Matrix Technology (GMT) grants Poly-Feed Drip products with improved handling and storage properties. Poly-Feed Drip products are easily identified by the light-blue color of both the bag and the crystals.

Poly-Feed Foliar
NPK fertilizers for foliar feeding of open-field crops, protected crops and fruit-trees Poly-Feed Foliar nourishes crops with their exact needs during critical growth phases, for maximal yields and top quality. Poly-Feed Foliar formulae are based on low-biuret urea and contain remarkably high concentrations of micronutrients in the form of EDTA chelates. The Granular Matrix Technology (GMT) grants PolyFeed Foliar products with improved handling and storage properties. Poly-Feed Foliar products are easily identified by the green color of both the bag and the crystals.

Poly-Feed MAR
NPK fertilizers enhanced with seaweed extracts Poly-Feed NPK fertilizers provide crops with all the nutritional elements needed for healthy development. Enrichment with seaweed extracts stimulates plant growth and improves plant nutrition, resulting in better performance of the fertilizer and the plant. The seaweed extracts contain a wide range of nutrients, growth bio-stimulants and conditioners that act together to improve both plant development and soil properties. A variety of Poly-Feed formulae are now available, enriched with 0.5% seaweed extracts.

40

Haifa-Bonus
High K formula for foliar feeding of fruit-trees and field-crops Haifa-Bonus is an innovate foliar preparation, designed to allow for concentrated spray applications. Haifa-Bonus is based on Multi-K potassium nitrate. Phosphorus (P) enrichment enhances the nutritional value of the product, and reduces its pH for optimal absorption. Haifa-Bonus contains special adjuvants for better adhesion to the leaf surface, improved absorption and prolonged action. The benefits of Haifa-Bonus Enables highly concentrated sprays, thus less applications are required Compatible with a large variety of pesticides, enabling tank mixing them with Haifa-Bonus, thus saving on spray operations Consists of pure, fully soluble nutrients only Free of sodium and chloride

Multi-MAP
Mono-ammonium phosphate (12-61-0) Multi-MAP is a fully water-soluble mono-ammonium phosphate (12-61-0) fertilizer, a highly efficient source of phosphorus and nitrogen for plants. Multi-MAP is recommended for use at the beginning of the growth season, when phosphorus availability is crucial for the establishment of root system. Multi-MAP can be tank-mixed with other fertilizers* to meet crop nutritional needs throughout the growth cycle.

Multi-MKP
Mono-potassium phosphate (0-52-34) Multi-MKP is a fully water-soluble mono-potassium phosphate (0-52-34) fertilizer a highly efficient source of phosphorus and potassium for plants. Due to its high concentration of plant available phosphorous and potassium, it is a widely used fertilizer, consisting of 100% plant nutrients. Multi-MKP is recommended for use at the beginning of the growth season, when phosphorus availability is crucial for the establishment of root system. Multi-MKP can be tank-mixed with other fertilizers* to meet crop nutritional needs throughout the growth cycle.

41

Multi-Cal
Calcium Nitrate Multi-Cal is a highly efficient source of available calcium and nitrogen for plants. Calcium is a quality nutrient that enhances yield quality and prolongs shelf life of the yields. As calcium is not mobile in the plant, it has to be supplied throughout the growth season to keep adequate levels in the plant tissues and to ensure proper development. The nitrate-nitrogen in Multi-Cal is readily consumed by the plant and improves the efficiency of calcium uptake. Three grades of Multi-Cal are available
Greenhouse Grade (15.5-0-0+26.5 CaO) For Nutrigation of greenhouse crops. Suitable for preparation of fertilizer blends and liquid fertilizers. Nutrigation Grade (15.5-0-0+26.5 CaO) For Nutrigation of field-crops and fruittrees. Suitable for preparation of fertilizer blends and liquid fertilizers. Agri Grade (15.5-0-0+27CaO) - Granular fertilizer for base- and side-dressing of field crops

Magnisal
Magnesium nitrate (11-0-0+16 MgO) Magnisal is a fully water-soluble magnesium nitrate (11-0-0+16 MgO) fertilizer. Magnesium deficiency retards the development of plants, resulting in decrease of yields. Magnisal provides plants with the magnesium together with nitrate-nitrogen, which is readily absorbed by the plant. The nitrate in Magnisal facilitates and accelerates magnesium uptake by the plant. Magnisal is the most recommended fertilizer to cure and prevent magnesium deficiencies. Magnisal is supplied in the form of flakes for convenient handling and dissolution.

42

Multi-Micro
Chelated micronutrients Multi-Micro is a line of water-soluble chelated micronutrients for Nutrigation and foliar application of all crops. The chelated form ensures stability and plant-availability of the micronutrients, even in alkaline soils. Multi-Micro products dissolve rapidly and completely in water, with no risk of clogging of spray nozzles or narrow water passages. Available products: Multi-Micro Fe Multi-Micro Multi-Micro Multi-Micro Multi-Micro Mn Zn Cu Comb Iron-EDTA 13% Iron-EDDHA 6% Manganese-EDTA 13% Zinc-EDTA 14% Copper-EDTA 14% 7.1% Fe, 3.48% Mn, 1.02% Zn, 0.76% Cu, All as EDTA chelates 0.485% Mo as ammonium molybdate 6.5% F3-DTPA, 3.48 Mn-EDTA, 1.02% Zn-EDTA, 0.76% Cu-EDTA 0.485% Mo as ammonium molybdate

Multi-Micro Soilless combination

VitaPhos-K
Precipitation-proof phosphate for soilless Nutrigation VitaPhos-K provides plant-available phosphate in the form of soluble polyphosphate, which prevents formation of insoluble precipitates. In the root zone, the polyphosphate undergoes slow hydrolysis, providing plant-available phosphate over time. The composition of VitaPhos-K ensures that the hydrolysis occurs at the right time and the right location by the surface of the root. VitaPhos-K helps keeping water passages clean of precipitates and free for water flow, as it dismantles precipitates by bonding cations, which are then released again for plant uptake.

Multi-ProteK
Systemic PK fertilizer Multi-ProteK is an innovative systemic fertilizer, suitable for Nutrigation and for foliar application. Multi-ProteK combines phosphate and phosphite to improve phosphorus uptake by the plant, thus eliminating the occurrence of P deficiencies. It enhances vegetative growth and root development, and increases fruit size and total yields. It also improves the resistance of the plant towards various diseases. Multi-ProteK is environmentally safe and practically non-toxic. When applied by foliar spray, Muli-ProteK leaves neither spots nor toxic residues. Two analyses are available Standard 0-26-37+30% HPO32Total 0-0-39+60% HPO32-

43

Multi-Pepton
Amino-acid nutritional supplement for Nutrigation Multi-Pepton is a natural bio-stimulant. It contains Amino acids, low molecular weight peptides and humic acids that act together to support the metabolism of the plant and catalyze growth processes, even under adverse environmental conditions. All the components of Multi-Pepton are 100% natural, so they easily integrate with the plants metabolism.

Poly-Amin
Growth promoting foliar amino-acid preparation Poly-Amin is a natural bio-stimulant, specially designed for foliar application. It contains amino acids and low molecular weight peptides that act synergistically to catalyze growth processes and to support the metabolism of the plant. Poly-Amin helps the plant to overcome adverse environmental conditions. Poly-Amin is absorbed by the leaves quickly and efficiently without scorching. All the components of PolyAmin are 100% natural, so they easily integrate with the plants metabolism.

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Multicote
Controlled Release Fertilizers Multicote polymer-coated controlled release fertilizers release plant nutrients slowly and continuously throughout the growth cycle. A single application of Multicote will take care of optimal plant nutrition over months. Multicote is available at a wide range of formulae, and with release longevities of 4 to 16 months (at soil temperature of 21oC). Most formulae are enriched with micronutrients. The advantages of Multicote Plant nutritional needs are met by single application per season Reliable release profile, which is unaffected by soil type, soil pH, moisture or microbial activity. Broad selection of products for an extensive variety of applications High concentration of nutrients Homogenously distributed in the soil or potting mix Multicote release longevity Multicote release rate increases with temperature, and the longevity decreased accordingly. 15oC (60oF) 21oC (70oF) Multicote 4 6 months 4 months Multicote 6 7-8 months 6 months Multicote 8 9-10 months 8 months Multicote 12 15-16 months 12 months Multicote 16 20-22 months 16-18 months

is 30oC (86oF) 2 months 3-4 months 5-6 months 7-8 months 9-10 months

Recommended applications Longevity Recommended for 4 months Bedding plants, pot plants and hanging baskets 6 months Bedding plants, pot plants, garden trees and shrubs 8 months Container-grown nursery stock, garden trees and shrubs 12 months Container-grown nursery stock 16 months Container-grown nursery stock, specially recommended for use in tropical and sub-tropical regions

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Multicote Agri
Controlled Release Fertilizers for Agriculture & Horticulture
Taking advantage of MulticoTech polymer coating technology, HAIFA has developed Multicote AGRI - a family of controlled-release fertilizer products for agriculture and horticulture.

Multicote AGRI products contain polymer-coated sources of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, with release longevity of 2-8 months. Multicote AGRI products are recommended for cash crops in open field, protected crops and fruittrees. For arable crops, CoteN polymer-coated urea, and CoteN Mix polymer-coated urea with readily available nutrient, products are recommended. Recommended applications Multicote AGRI products are highly recommended in the following cases: On light soils, where conventional fertilizers are easily leached In rainy areas, when rainfall accelerates nutrient leaching Wherever nitrogen application is limited e.g., by environmental regulations For crops with a shallow root system For crops with high nutritional requirements In cases where mid-season application is not feasible (e.g. when the crop covers the soil surface, in mulched crops and in muddy fields)

Multicote Turf
Controlled Release Fertilizers for Turf Proper nutrition is an essential condition for healthy, vigorous, good-looking turf. Multicote TURF product line fully addresses all growth factors. It offers optimized fertilization programs for every combination of turf species, climate conditions and maintenance level. Multicote TURF year-round nutritional programs are composed of formulae with different N:K ratios, addressing the changing nutritional needs of the turf plant and supporting seasonal growth processes. Action Dormancy breaker; Initiates intensive leaf growth Balanced fertilizer, regulates root and shoot growth. Helps maintaining turf quality and strength during seasons of intensive use. Keeper 1:2 or 1:3 High-potassium fertilizer supports last leaf growth and builds carbohydrate storage. Multi-K Turf 1:3 Quickly available potassium fertilizer; Quick action for tough periods. For close-cut turf, the Multicote TURF MINI range of fine prilled products is recommended. Product Booster Feeder N:K* ratio 2:1 1:1

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Appendix IV: Conversion tables

From P P H3PO4 K Ca Mg S S N N To P2O5 PO4 H2PO4 K2O CaO MgO SO3 SO4 NH4 NO3 Multiply by 2.29 3.06 0.98 1.20 1.40 1.66 2.50 3.00 1.28 4.43 From P2O5 PO4 H2PO4 K2O CaO MgO SO3 SO4 NH4 NO3 To P P H3PO4 K Ca Mg S S N N Multiply by 0.44 0.32 1.38 0.83 0.71 0.60 0.40 0.33 0.82 0.22

1 meq NH4 + NO3H2PO4 HPO4 2HPO4 2K+ Ca2+ Mg2+ SO4 2Na+

Correspondent element (mg) 14 mg N 14 mg N 31 mg P 31 mg P 15.5 mg P 39 mg K 20 mg Ca 12 mg Mg 16 mg S 23 mg Na

1 mmol NH4+ NO3 H2PO4 HPO4 2K+ Ca2+ Mg2+ SO42Na+ Cl-

Correspondent element (mg) 14 mg N 14 mg N 31 mg P 31 mg P 39 mg K 40 mg Ca 24 mg Mg 32 mg S 23 mg Na 35.5 mg Cl

Weight of ion 18 mg NH4+ 62 mg NO371 mg P2O5 35,5 mg P2O5 47 mg K2O 28 mg CaO 20 mg MgO 48 mg SO4 -

From Acre Kilogram Gram Short Ton Gallon (US) Kg/Ha MT/Ha

To Hectare Lbs Ounces MT Liters Lbs/acre Lbs/acre

Multiply by 0.405 2.205 0.035 0.907 3.785 0.892 892

From Hectare Lbs Ounces MT Liters Lbs/acre Lbs/acre

To Acre Kilogram Gram Short Ton Gallon (US) Kg/Ha MT/Ha

Multiply by 2.471 0.453 28.35 1.1 0.26 1.12 0.001

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