Critical to the growth and health of all crops, boron (B) is a component of plant cell walls and reproductive structures. As a mobile nutrient within the soil, boron is prone to movement within the soil. Because it is required in small amounts, it is important that B is delivered as evenly as possible across the field. Traditional fertilizer blends containing B struggle to achieve uniform nutrient distribution. Despite the need for this critical nutrient, B is the second deficient micronutrient in the world, next to zinc.

Boron plays a major role in a wide range of plant functions including cell wall formation and stability, maintenance of structural and functional integrity of biological membranes, movement of sugar or energy into growing parts of plants, and pollination and seed set. An adequate amount of B is also required for effective nitrogen fixation and nodulation in legume crops.

Studies show that adequate B nutrition increases root uptake of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) by maintaining proper function and structure of root cell membranes. In short-term experiments with corn plants, reduced root uptake of P and K under low B supply was restored within one hour after B was added to the growth medium. Experimental evidence also suggests that an adequate supply of B is needed for mitigation of aluminum toxicity in plants grown in low-pH soils.

It is best practice to soil-test your fields every two years in order to gain an accurate understanding of the nutrient levels of your field. Make sure to compare current nutrient needs with your yield goals, and discuss options with an agronomist. Because there is a fine line between deficiency and toxicity, it’s important to apply the correct amount of B at the right rate and right time using the right source. Aspire® with Boron ensures uniform nutrient distribution across each field. Using Nutriform™ technology, Aspire combines potassium and boron in each nutritionally balanced granule.

For more information about boron uptake, visit CropNutrition.com.

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