Just as people need vitamins and minerals in their diet for long term health, plants require other elements in their diet to thrive.

What are the main trace elements for plants:-

Commercial farmers and growers need certain specific trace-elements for the crop they’re growing. Fortunately we don’t need to be that specific but an awareness is useful to keep our ground in good condition.

The main trace elements, or micronutrients are needed in small amounts but are crucial for various plant processes like chlorophyll production, enzyme activation, and nutrient absorption.

Sources of Trace elements that we can apply

For small growers, like us, sources of trace elements include rock dust (volcanic), organic compost and seaweed extract and non-organic mineral additives like chelated supplements. While rock dust and compost can provide a slow-release source of trace elements, seaweed extract and mineral additives offer more immediate and targeted
solutions.

Elaboration:

1. Rock Dust:- when added to potting mixes, can theoretically supply a wide range of trace elements, but their release is slow.
2. Compost:- being rich in organic matter, contributes trace elements to the soil as micro-organisms break it down.
3. Organic Amendments:- seaweed extracts enrich the soil with trace elements and stimulate microbial activity, enhancing nutrient cycling.

Mineral Additives:- Chelated mineral supplements are a good option for quickly boosting trace elements in the soil, but I argue are beyond the use of small growers like us and besides they’re veryexpensive!

Important Considerations:

• Soil Testing: Before supplementing with trace elements, it’s beneficial to have your soil tested to identify deficiencies and ensure you are not over-supplying any specific elements.
• Timing and Application: Foliar sprays can provide a quick boost of trace elements, but soil application is crucial for long-term plant health.

Trace elements are a complicated and specialised subject. Though they’re essential for growing the best plants, for small growers like us it’s good to focus on some recommended soil additives like volcanic rock dust and seaweed they supply a range of micro-nutrients.

Note:
Different soil types have varying micronutrient needs. Sandy soils, for example, tend to be low in nutrients overall, including micronutrients. Clay soils, on the other hand, are generally high in nutrients, according to the RHS. Soil pH, texture, and organic matter content all play a
role in how readily micronutrients are available to plants.