Sulphate of Iron

What is Sulphate of Iron?

• Composition and Benefits: Sulphate of Iron is a naturally occurring compound that contains both iron and sulfur. Iron is an essential micronutrient for plants, necessary for chlorophyll production, photosynthesis, and overall growth. Sulfur, on the other hand, is vital for protein formation, enzyme activity, and plant metabolism.
• Common Uses: The primary use of Sulphate of Iron is to treat iron deficiency, also known as chlorosis, which results in yellowing of leaves, particularly in plants with alkaline soils. It’s also used to acidify soil, making it more suitable for acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas, and blueberries.
• Application: It is available in granules or liquid form and can be applied to both soil and plants to address nutrient imbalances and improve the overall health of your garden.

How to Apply Sulphate of Iron

1. Determining the Right Application Amount

• Soil Testing: Before using Sulphate of Iron, it’s a good idea to test your soil's pH and nutrient levels. If your soil is alkaline (above pH 7), Sulphate of Iron can help lower the pH and restore balance. Additionally, iron deficiency is more common in alkaline soils, making this application essential for affected plants.
• Application Rate: Typically, you can apply 25-50 grams per square meter of soil, but this depends on the specific plant and soil conditions. For established plants showing signs of iron deficiency, reduce the amount of Sulphate of Iron to avoid over-fertilization. For container-grown plants, use 5-10 grams mixed into the topsoil.

2. When to Apply

• Best Timing: The ideal time to apply Sulphate of Iron is during the growing season, typically in early spring or late summer. This timing supports plant growth and provides the necessary nutrients during peak active growth periods. Avoid applying it in winter when plants are dormant.
• Avoid Over-Application: Overuse of Sulphate of Iron can lead to an imbalance in the soil, affecting other nutrients. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct dosage to prevent damaging your plants.

3. Application Methods

• Soil Application: For treating soil, evenly scatter the recommended amount of Sulphate of Iron on the surface of the soil and lightly work it into the top few centimeters. Water thoroughly after applying to help the granules dissolve and penetrate the soil.
• Foliar Spray: If you're treating a specific plant showing signs of chlorosis, you can dissolve Sulphate of Iron in water (about 10 grams per liter) and spray it directly onto the plant leaves. This method is quicker for correcting visible deficiencies but should be used with care to avoid over-saturation.

Storing and Handling Sulphate of Iron

1. Proper Storage

• Keep Dry and Cool: Store Sulphate of Iron in a cool, dry place, away from moisture. This will help maintain its effectiveness, as humidity and moisture can cause the product to clump or dissolve prematurely.
• Sealed Packaging: Always ensure that the package is tightly sealed when not in use, especially if you have purchased large quantities. Keeping it in an airtight container will also help protect it from pests and contaminants.

2. Handling and Safety

• Wear Protective Gear: While Sulphate of Iron is generally safe to use, it’s recommended to wear gloves and eye protection when handling the product to avoid irritation, especially in its powdered or granular form.
• Avoid Ingestion: Like other fertilizers, keep Sulphate of Iron out of reach of children and pets. Ingesting it can cause health problems.
• Spills and Clean-up: If Sulphate of Iron is spilled, clean it up immediately by sweeping or vacuuming the area to prevent staining, particularly on paved surfaces, as it can leave permanent marks.

Benefits of Using Sulphate of Iron in Your Garden

1. Corrects Iron Deficiency

• Prevent Chlorosis: The most common issue Sulphate of Iron addresses is iron deficiency (chlorosis), characterized by yellowing leaves with green veins. Iron is necessary for chlorophyll formation, so a lack of it leads to poor photosynthesis and stunted plant growth.
• Improves Plant Health: By providing the necessary iron, Sulphate of Iron helps plants produce healthy, green foliage and stronger, more vigorous growth. This is particularly important for plants that are sensitive to iron deficiencies, such as rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, and blueberries.

2. Soil Acidification

• Lower Soil pH: Sulphate of Iron can be used to lower the pH of alkaline soils, making them more acidic. Many acid-loving plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil conditions, so adding Sulphate of Iron can help improve soil conditions for such plants.
• Improves Availability of Nutrients: Lowering soil pH can also increase the availability of other nutrients in the soil, improving overall plant health and growth.

3. Promotes Stronger Root Systems

• Enhanced Root Growth: The presence of iron in Sulphate of Iron supports strong root development, helping plants take up nutrients and water more efficiently. This is particularly beneficial for young plants or those growing in less-than-ideal soil conditions.
• Better Disease Resistance: Iron is crucial for the overall immune system of plants. When plants have adequate iron, they are better able to resist disease and stress from environmental factors.

Conclusion

Sulphate of Iron is a versatile and valuable tool in the garden, especially for plants that are prone to iron deficiencies or that thrive in slightly acidic soils. By following proper application methods, using the recommended amounts, and ensuring safe handling and storage, Sulphate of Iron can provide numerous benefits to your plants, including healthier foliage, stronger growth, and better fruit and flower production. Whether you're addressing yellowing leaves or trying to improve the soil pH for acid-loving plants, Sulphate of Iron is an excellent addition to your gardening toolkit.

• Brand
  Westland

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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