Nutritional recommendations for

PEPPER
in open-field, tunnels and greenhouse
Botanical name: Capsicum annuum L. Synonyms: Capsicum, bell-pepper, paprika, piment, pimiento, pepperoni, gemusepaprika.

Contents:
1 General growing conditions ........................................................................................ 3 1.1 Growing methods ........................................................................................................................ 3 1.2 Soil types ......................................................................................................................................... 3 1.3 Specific sensitivities ..................................................................................................................... 3 1.4 Desirable temperatures ............................................................................................................ 4 1.5 Irrigation .......................................................................................................................................... 4 1.6 Crop uses ........................................................................................................................................ 4 1.7 Growth stages ............................................................................................................................... 4 Nutritional requirements ............................................................................................ 5 2.1 Main functions of plant nutrients ........................................................................................... 5 2.2 Nutrients uptake curves ............................................................................................................. 6 2.3 N-P-K functions in pepper ......................................................................................................... 6 2.4 Nutritional disorders in peppers ............................................................................................. 8 2.5 Leaf analysis standards ............................................................................................................ 12 2.6 Plant nutrients requirements ................................................................................................. 13 Fertilization recommendations ................................................................................ 14 3.1 Soil-grown pepper ..................................................................................................................... 14 3.1.1 Haifa NutriNet web software for Nutrigation programs ........................... 14 a. Base-dressing ............................................................................................................ 14 b. Nutrigation .............................................................................................................. 15 3.1.2 Poly-Feed water-soluble NPK fertilizers .............................................................. 18 3.1.3 Multicote Agri controlled release fertilizers ...................................................... 18 3.1.4 Foliar nutrition................................................................................................................ 19 3.2 Soilless-grown pepper.............................................................................................................. 20 3.2.1 Straight fertilizers .......................................................................................................... 20 3.2.2 Poly-Feed water-soluble NPKs................................................................................ 25

Appendix I: HAIFA Specialty Fertilizers .......................................................................... 26 Appendix II: Conversion tables ....................................................................................... 29

1. General growing conditions

1.1 Growing method
Open-field, greenhouse or tunnels

1.2 Soil type

Better results will be obtained by growing in light soil such as sandy loam or loams, well drained, rich in organic matter. The preferable pH of the soil should be between 6.5 and 7.5.

1.3 Specific sensitivities

Sensitivity to soil-borne diseases Peppers are prone to soil-borne diseases caused by fungi, viruses or bacteria. Therefore it is recommended to avoid growing peppers on plots that used for other sensitive crops (tomatoes, eggplants, Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, cotton, soybeans and others) on recent years. A regime of 3-year rotation between small grains and pepper is recommended. Sensitivity to salinity Under saline conditions, sodium cations compete with the potassium cations for the uptake sites in the roots, and chloride competes for the uptake of nitrate-nitrogen and will reduce yield. This will result in a potassium deficiency in the pepper 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 negative effects. Abundant application of nitrate, as this specific anion can successfully compete with chloride, and markedly reduce its uptake and adverse effects. Also, calcium may help to suppress the uptake of sodium. When sufficient calcium is available, the roots prefer uptake of potassium to sodium, and sodium uptake will be suppressed. Zinc nutrition in plants seems to play a major role in the resistance to salt in pepper and other crops. 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 sodium (Na+) by roots in saline conditions. The methods of implementing these measures are discussed in chapter 2. Sensitivity to calcium deficiency Peppers 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. But manganese (Mn) was recently found to serve as antioxidant in pepper fruit hence the addition of manganese to peppers grown under salinity may alleviate BER symptoms in the fruits. Special care must be taken to avoid growing conditions, which enhance BER phenomenon. Please read more about it in chapter 2.

1.4 Desirable temperatures

Table 1. Optimal temperatures for pepper plants by growth stage. Growth stage Germination
3B

Temperature (0C) Minimum 13 15 18 Maximum 40 32 35 Optimal 20-25 20-25 (day) 16-18 (night) 26-28 (day) 18-20 (night)

Vegetative growth Flowering and fruiting

1.5 Irrigation
Greenhouse grown peppers enjoy a longer growing season. They consume, therefore, a larger amount of water than open-field grown peppers during their respective growing season. Water stress affects pepper growth by reducing the number of leaves and the leaf area, resulting in less transpiration and photosynthesis. Root density is reduced by ~20 % under water stress conditions, compared to sufficiently irrigated plants. Excessive irrigation will cause water-logging, root death due to anaerobic soil conditions, delayed flowering and fruit disorders. The root system consists of a deep taproot with laterally spread branches about 50 cm long, and adventitious roots. Therefore a drip system equipped with a Nutrigation (fertigation) device is advisable.

1.6 Crop uses

Pepper is used as a fresh vegetable, pickled vegetable, fresh chili spice and dried paprika powder.

1.7 Growth stages

Growth stages of plants consist of four general periods, having unique nutritional needs of the plant, consequently requiring different fertilization regimes: Vegetative growth from planting or seeding to first flowering. From flowering to fruit set Fruit ripening to first harvest From first to last harvest The duration of each stage may vary according to growing method, variety characteristics and climatic conditions.

Table 2: An example of various growth stages durations: Location: Central Israel Variety: Maor Growing method: Greenhouse Number of days to flowering: 35-40 Number of days to 1st harvest: 70 Growth stage Planting Vegetative Flowering Fruit set 1 Harvest
st

Stage duration (days) 1 24 10 10 25 170

Plant age (days) 1 25 35 45 70 240

Harvest to Last Harvest

2. Nutritional requirements
2.1 Main functions of plant nutrients
Table 3: 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 and a-biotic stresses, counteracts salinity 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.

2.2 Nutrient uptake curves

Figure 1: Nutrient requirements curves (kg/ha/day) in pepper cv Maor. Seeding: July 14th ; Soil type: Sand ; Plant Density: 100,000 plants/ha Expected yield: 75 T/ha
Daily uptake (kg/ha) 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 Days after seeding
N P2O5 K2O

As can be seen in figure 1, the greatest absorption of nutrients occurs in the first 60 days 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 nitrogen use efficiency and greater yields are achieved when the nitrogen is applied under polyethylene mulches and with 12 weekly N applications in a drip irrigation system (Nutrigation). At least 50-90% of the total nitrogen should be applied in nitrate (NO3- ) form.

2.3 N-P-K functions in pepper

Nitrogen (N) contributes to the vegetative growth of the pepper plant. It is important that the plant, when reaching the flowering stage, will be well developed vegetatively; or it will have a low yielding potential. Pepper plants were found to positively respond (by increasing number of flowers and fruits) to higher nitrogen concentrations than the usual norms for other crops. Phosphorus (P) is essential for the normal development of the roots and reproductive organs (flowers, fruit, seeds). Highly available phosphorous is needed for the establishment of the transplant. Phosphorus shortage in the soil will result in development of too small and short branches, many undeveloped buds and less fruit in general. Adequate phosphorus enhances early fruit ripening. Potassium (K) - adequate levels enhance the accumulation of carbohydrates and the resistance to low temperatures and diseases. See figure 2. Potassium deficiency slows down the growth rate of pepper plants. Potassium deficiency symptoms are: brown spots at the edges of the leaves and fruits, and sometimes there is curling and drying of the leaves. Severe potassium deficiency will retard the transportation of sugars within the plant, leading to starch accumulation in the lower leaves.

Figure 2: Effects of potassium (K) on pepper yield, under constant N rate of 224 kg/ha

Pepper yield (MT/ha)

K2O rate (kg/ha)

Table 4: Example of optional growing methods and the required rates of macro- and secondary plant nutrients Greenhouse Expected yield (T/ha) Plant density (plants/ha) 75 - 200 50,000 - 100,000 Open Field 11 - 140 30,000 - 50,000

Nutrients Uptake (kg/ha) N P2O5 K2O CaO MgO S 390 - 920 200 - 330 640 - 1530 100 - 210 60 - 150 40 - 50 116 - 705 132 - 276 174 - 1155 38 - 174 22 - 115 35 - 40

2.4 Nutritional disorders in pepper

Table 5: Visual symptoms exhibited by pepper plants under nutritional disorders Nutrient
0B

Deficiency symptoms Plant development gradually slows down. Gradual drying, beginning at leaf margins, of the area between the lower leaf veins. The petioles bend and hang downwards, parallel to the stem. The plant develops few flowers and fruit setting is poor. The fruit receptacle is thin, and the ovary is small. Sometimes there is no fruit development on the plant at all, and on those plants that bear fruits, the fruit is deformed. See figure 3. The plants display limited growth. The leaves are hard and brittle to the touch. Flower formation is defective. Few flowers develop, and in those that do develop, only one in every four or five develops a fruit. The fruit is underdeveloped, with a thin receptacle, and very few seeds. The root system is undeveloped. See figure 4. Yellow chlorosis spots appear between leaf veins, firstly in the lower leaves. The veins and the areas adjacent to these spots do not change their color. Later, the chlorotic spots become lighter. (This can be seen mainly in the upper parts of the plant). There is little fruit setting, and not much fruit, which is smaller than usual. See figure 5. Causes leaves to become yellowish.

Excess / Toxicity symptoms Plants are usually dark green in color, have abundant foliage, but usually with a restricted root system. Flowering and seed production can be retarded.

Nitrogen
2B

Phosphorus

No typical primary symptoms. Copper and zinc deficiencies may occur due to excessive phosphorus.

Potassium

Usually not excessively absorbed by plants. Excessive potassium may lead to magnesium, manganese, zinc or iron deficiencies.

Sulfur

Reduction in growth and leaf size. Leaf symptoms often absent or poorly defined. Sometimes interveinal yellowing or leaf burning.

Nutrient
1B

Deficiency symptoms Is common on pepper plants. Yellowing of the leaves is apparent in the interveinal areas and veins remain green. The oldest leaves are affected first. Sometimes magnesium deficiency occurs when excessive applications of potassium have been made. It may also show up under extremely hot dry weather. See figure 6. The most common reason for Blossom End Rot of the fruit (see figure 7). This may be corrected by foliar spray of calcium chloride or calcium nitrate. Further information following on page 10. Symptoms show at the later stages of growth. The young leaves fade and then become yellow in the areas between the veins. The veins remain green. Wilted leaves, which then become chlorotic bronze, and necrotic. Roots become stunted and thickened near tips. Chlorotic spots between the upper leaf veins.

Excess / Toxicity symptoms Very little information available.

Magnesium

Calcium

No consistent visible symptoms. Usually associated with excessive soil carbonate.

Iron
4B

Rarely evident in natural conditions. Has been observed after foliar iron sprays manifested as necrotic spots. Burning or firing of leaf tips or margins. Bronzing, yellowing and leaf abscission and sometimes chlorosis. Reduced leaf size and lower growth rate. Sometimes chlorosis, uneven chlorophyll distribution. Reduction in growth. Lesions and leaf shedding may develop later. Yellowing of leaf tip followed by progressive necrosis of the leaf beginning at tip or margins and proceeding toward midrib. See figure 9.

Chloride

Manganese

Boron

Zinc Copper

Molybdenum

The deficiency manifests itself very quickly. The lower leaves curl upwards. Growth is stunted. The plant develops a thick, short stem. The apex withers and the leaves become yellow from bottom to top of the plant. See figure 8. There is a reduced production of flowers, and fruit setting is poor. The leaves become narrow and small in chili. Appear late in the vegetative stage. The leaf margins curl and dry up. The leaves and the fruit become narrow and rectangular. The foliage turns yellow-green and growth is somewhat restricted. The deficiency occurs most commonly on acidic substrates.

Excessive zinc commonly produces iron chlorosis in plants. Reduced growth followed by symptoms of iron chlorosis, stunting, reduced branching, thickening and abnormal darkening of rootlets. Rarely observed. Sometimes leaves turn golden yellow.

Figure 3: Nitrogen (N) deficiency

Figure 4: Phosphorus (P) deficiency

Figure 5: Potassium (K) deficiency

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Figure 6: Magnesium (Mg) deficiency.

Figure 7: Calcium (Ca) deficiency as blossom-end rot (BER) of the fruit

Blossom end rot (BER) BER occurs mainly during hot weather conditions. Fruits are affected in their early stages of development (10-15 days after fruit set); the cause is related to the rate of calcium supply to the fruit, which is lower than the rate of the fruit growth. This results in the collapse of certain tissues in the fruit, demonstrated as BER. Factors that favor BER are directly related to limited calcium uptake and transport to the fruit, like high salinity, high temperatures and high growing intensity and water shortage. Pepper spots Black spot or stip is shown in the fruit as grey/black spots, which develop under the skin in the fruit wall about the time the fruit attains a diameter of 8 centimeters or more. As the fruits ripen, the spots slightly enlarge and turn green or yellow. Stip is a calcium disorder, caused by excessive NNH4 and K rates. Susceptibility greatly varies by variety.

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Figure 8: Boron deficiency; the growing points die and decay, and the leaves are misshapen

Figure 9: Boron excess

2.5 Leaf analysis standards

Table 6: Macro and secondary plant nutrients contents in pepper plant leaves Deficient N P K Ca Mg Na 2-2.5 0.25 2 1 0.25 Normal % of dry matter 3-4 0.3-0.4 3.5-4.5 1.5-2 0.25-0.4 0.1 4-5 0.4-0.6 4.5-5.5 5-6 0.4-0.6 High

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Table 7: Micro plant nutrients contents in pepper plant leaves: Deficient Fe Mn Zn Cu B Mo 50-100 25 25-40 Normal ppm of dry matter 200-300 80-120 40-50 15-20 40-60 0.4 300-500 140-200 60-200 24-40 60-100 0.6 High

2.6 Plant Nutrient Requirements

Table 8: Nutritional requirements of pepper in greenhouse Expected yield (Ton/ha)
25 50 75 100 125 150 175 200

Removal by yield (kg/ha( N

50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400

Uptake by whole plant (kg/ha) N

140 221 303 384 466 547 629 710

P2O5
15 30 45 60 75 90 105 120

K2O
87 175 262 350 437 525 612 700

CaO
12 25 37 50 62 75 87 100

MgO
7 15 22 30 37 45 52 60

P2O5
35 57 79 101 123 145 167 189

K2O
201 330 457 585 712 841 968 1096

CaO
107 153 198 244 290 336 381 427

MgO
32 49 64 81 97 114 129 146

Table 9: Nutritional requirements of pepper in open field Expected yield (Ton/ha) 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 Removal by yield (kg/ha( N 40 80 120 160 200 240 280 P2O5 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 K2O 70 140 210 280 350 420 490 CaO 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 MgO 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 Uptake by whole plant (kg/ha) N 121 191 261 331 402 472 542 P2O5 30 49 67 86 105 124 142 K2O 173 282 390 499 608 716 825 CaO 95 137 179 221 263 305 347 MgO 28 43 57 72 86 100 115

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3. 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, 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.

3.1 Soil-grown pepper

3.1.1 Haifa NutriNet web software for Nutrigation programs Haifa fertilization recommendations are available in the online Knowledge Center on our website, www.haifa-group.com. Use the NutriNet web software, accessible through our website or directly at www.haifa-nutrinet.com, to generate customized Nutrigation programs, considering specific growth conditions. The following is an example of recommendations, determined by NutriNet, with the assumption to split the scheduled fertilization into: a) Base-dressing (pre-plant) fertilizers, followed by: b) Nutrigation (fertigation) at different growth stages, on sandy-loam soil, when the expected yield is 65 ton/ha: a) Base-dressing (kg/ha):

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b) Nutrigation Total amount of fertigation-applied fertilizers (kg/ha)

Table 10: The total contribution of plant nutrients from each fertilizer as calculated by NutriNet:
Fertilizer Ammonium nitrate 34-0-0 Haifa MAP 12-61-0 Multi-K 13-0-46 Calcium nitrate (26% CaO) Magnesium sulfate (16% MgO) Total kg/ha 247.7 126.2 760.9 73.1 75 1283 215 77 350 19 N 81.7 15.5 98.9 11 77 350 19 12 12 P2O5 K2O CaO MgO

Table 11: Recommended nutrient rates per ha per day and per growth stage as calculated by NutriNet:
Phase Planting 1 phase
st

Days from sowing / planting 1 2-30 31-70 71-130

kg/ha/day N 1 0.66 2.65 1.98 P2O5 0 0.24 0.95 0.72 K2O 1 1.07 43 3.23 CaO 0 0.07 0.23 0.18 MgO 0 0.03 0.15 0.12 Total N 1 119 106 119 2455

kg/ha/phase P2O5 0 7 38 43 88 K2O 1 31 172 194 398 CaO 0 2 9 11 22 MgO 0 1 6 7 14

Main season End season

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Table 12: Recommended fertilizers rates per growth stage

Phase Days from sowing / planting 1 2-30 31-70 71-130 Total kg/ha/phase Ammonium nitrate 34-0-0 2 23 132 145 302 Haifa MAP* 12-61-0 0 11 62 70 143 Multi-K * 13-0-46 2 67 374 422 965 Haifa Cal* (26% CaO) 0 8 35 42 85 Magnesium sulfate (16% MgO) 0 6 38 44 88

Planting 1 phase
st

Main season End season

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

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Example: Growing practice of peppers in Israel Duration of the growth season:

In the southern part of the country (dry and hot climate) growth season of pepper in net houses starts on August and ends by the end of April. The season is rather long because of the scarcity of precipitates (ca 70 mm per year). The summer growth term starts on April and lasts till the end of December. In greenhouses and plastic tunnels the growth season is between August and April. In open field the season starts on April and ends on June.

Table 13: NK ratio The N:K ratio is 1-1.5 to 1-2 Kg / ha /Ton pepper yield N 20-30 P2O5* 27.5 K2O* 48-60
* Conversion factors: P = P2O5 x 0.44 ; K = K2O x 0.83

Standard pepper plant density in Israel is 30,000 35,000 plants/ ha. Average yield of open-field grown pepper in Israel is 55 70 T/ha. Average yield of net house grown pepper in Israel is 90 110 T/ha. Table 14: Open field Pepper fertilization program (Planting on the 1-15 of April): A. Plant nutrients Growth phase First 2 weeks Vegetative Growth Flowering - fruit set Fruit set - harvest Total B. Actual fertilizers Growth phase First 2 weeks Vegetative growth Flowering - fruit set Fruit set - harvest Total Stage duration (days) 14 14 40 75 145 kg/ha/day A.N.* 0.5-1 0.5-1.5 3-5.5 0.5-1.5 Multi-K* 2.5-4 8-14.5 12-13 8-14.5 Haifa MAP* 3.5-5.5 3.5 3.5 3.5 A.N.* 7-14 7-21 120-220 37-110 170-365 kg/ha/phase Multi-K* 35-55 110-200 480-520 600-1100 1225-1875 Haifa MAP* 50-75 19 140 263 470-495 Stage duration (days) 14 14 40 75 145 kg/ha/day N 1-1.5 2-2.5 3.0-4.0 2 - 2.5 P2O5 1-1.5 1 1 1 K2O 1-1.5 3.0-4.0 4.5-5 3.0-4.0 N 14-21 28-35 120-160 150-185 300-400 kg/ha/phase P2O5 14-21 14 40 75 140-150 K2O 14-21 42-56 180-200 225-300 460-580

* A.N. = ammonium nitrate Multi-K = Potassium nitrate Haifa MAP = Mono-ammonium phosphate

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3.1.2 Poly-Feed water-soluble NPK fertilizers Table 15: fertilization recommendations for bell pepper in tunnels. Expected yield: 50 ton/ha Growth stage Initial establishment Vegetative to fruit set Fruit set to 1st harvest Harvest Days Poly-Feed formula kg/ha/day Total kg/ha 7 15-30-15 8 56 20 19-19-19 13 260 20 18-9-27 13 260 100 18-9-27 13 1300

Table 16: fertilization recommendations for bell pepper in greenhouse. Expected yield: 120 ton/ha Growth stage Initial establishment Vegetative to fruit set Fruit set to 1st harvest Harvest Days Poly-Feed formula kg/ha/day Total kg/ha 10 15-30-15 8 80 25 19-19-19 13 325 20 18-9-27 15 600 170 18-9-27 13 2210

3.1.3 Multicote Agri Controlled Release Fertilizers 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 17: Multicote Agri application recommendations bell pepper in greenhouse kg/ha 2,500 - 3,500 Analysis 17-9-27 Longevity 8 months

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3.1.4 Foliar nutrition To correct plant nutrient deficiency at the critical stage, spray with the suitable Haifa water-soluble fertilizer at a safe concentration. The safe spray concentration may vary, depending on climatic conditions. In order to determine the safe spray concentration, one should spray it on a few plants and check for any phytotoxicity symptoms after 3-5 days. Table 18: Haifa water-soluble fertilizers for foliar application: Fertilizer Haifa Bonus
5B

Curing Treatment Potassium deficiency Phosphorous deficiency Phosphate 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 %

Haifa MAP Haifa MKP Magnisal Poly-Feed

Table 19: Example of foliar feeding program (complement to Nutrigation), Mexico Growth stage Transplanting Vegetative Product Poly-Feed 12-43-12+ME Poly-Feed 19-19-19+ME Magnisal Haifa Micro Comb Poly-Feed 10-10-43+ME Spray conc. (%) 0.5-1 1-2 0.5 0.1 1-2 Application rate (kg/ha) 1-2 3-4 1-2 0.5 3-4

Fruit setting

Time intervals between sprayings: 15 days

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3.2 Soilless-grown pepper

3.2.1 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 compatibility. 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. 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 will deliver 5 L into each cubic meter of the irrigated water (1000 L / 5 L = 200), the amount of fertilizer dissolved in the tank should be multiplied by 200.

Example I - Holland 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 practiced at lower water quality prevailing in other conditions. Table 20: Nutrition database for sweet pepper in Holland, grown on rockwool Parameter EC (mS/cm) N- NH4 N- NO3 P H2PO4 K Ca Mg S, total SO4 Nutrient solution (ppm) 2.2 17.3 216.9 39 121.3 254.2 190.5 36.5 55.5 168.2

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Table 21: Recommended water-soluble fertilizers and their rates, to prepare the above recommended solution: Fertilizers Multi-K Haifa SOP Haifa Cal Magnisal MgSO4 Haifa MAP Total g/m3 500 150 1000 120 260 140 NO3 65 155 13.2 Plant nutrients g/m3 solution NH4 P* K* Ca* Mg* 190 63 190 10.8 26 16.8 37.8 16.8 37.8 253 190 36.8 S* 22.5

33.8 56.3

233.2

Example II Florida, USA Table 22: Hydroponic fertilizer solution concentration for growing peppers in a shade house on a composted pine bark medium Nutrient N P K Ca Mg S Nutrient Concentration (ppm = mg/L) Transplant to first flower After first flower 100 130 50 50 120 200 100 150 40 50 50 60

Table 23: Recommended water-soluble fertilizers and their rates to prepare a fertilizer solution from transplant to first flower and a fertilizer solution after first flower. A. From transplant to first flower Fertilizers Multi-K Haifa Cal MgSO4 Haifa MKP Total g/m3 150 530 400 220 101.65 0 49.94 49.94 61.6 118.6 100.7 40 52 NO3 19.5 82.15 Plant nutrients g/m3 solution NH4 P* K* Ca* 57 100.7 40 52 Mg* S*

* 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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B. After first flower Fertilizers Multi-K Haifa Cal MgSO4 Haifa MKP Total g/m3 360 680 470 220 152.2 0 49.94 49.94 61.6 198.4 129.2 47 61.1 NO3 46.8 105.4 Plant nutrients g/m3 solution NH4 P* K* Ca* Mg* 136.8 129.2 47 61.1 S*

Example III general USDA recommendations: Table 24: Total nutritional requirements Nutrient N P K Ca Mg S Nutrient Concentration (ppm = mg/L) Transplant to first flower After first flower 70 160 50 50 119 200 110 190 40 48 55 65

Table 25: Recommended water-soluble fertilizers and their rates to prepare a fertilizer solution A. From transplant to first flower Fertilizers Multi-K Haifa SOP Haifa Cal MgSO4 Haifa MKP Total g/m3 80 60 580 400 220 NO3 10.4 89.9 Plant nutrients g/m3 solution NH4 P* K* Ca* Mg* 30.4 25.2 110.2 40 49.94 61.6 0 49.94 117.2 110.2 40 S* 9 52 61

100.3

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B. After first flower Fertilizers Multi-K Haifa SOP Haifa Cal MgSO4 Haifa MKP Total g/m3 140 200 1000 480 220 NO3 18.2 155 Plant nutrients g/m3 solution NH4 P* K* Ca* Mg* 53.2 84 190 48 49.94 61.6 0 49.94 198.8 190 48 S* 30 62.4 92.4

173.2

* 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

Example IV Israel Recommendations are for macro nutrients (N, P & K) by growth stages. Table 26: Recommendations for nutrient concentrations in irrigation (drip) water for soilless grown peppers in Israel. Growth Stage Establishment 3 flower Fruit development and growth Harvesting Harvesting Harvesting
rd

Period Early Fall Fall Winter Early Spring Spring-Summer

N 50 - 60 80 - 100 150 - 180 140 - 150 120 - 130

(g/m3) P* 15 - 20 25 - 30 30 - 35 30 - 35 25 - 30

K* 75 - 80 100 - 120 200 - 230 160 - 190 150 - 160

Important: EC of irrigation water should be lower than 2.0 mS/cm

Table 27: Required amount of fertilizers to supply the above-recommended nutrients, by growth stages A. Establishment to 3rd flower Fertilizers Ammonium nitrate Multi-K Haifa MAP Sub-total N Total g/m3 50 - 70 200 - 210 60 - 80 NO3 8.5 - 11.9 26 - 27.3 Plant nutrients g/m3 solution NH4 P* 8.5 - 11.9 76 - 79.8 16.2-21.6 16.2 - 21.6 76 - 79.8 K*

7.2 - 9.6 50 - 70 8.5 - 11.9 50.2 - 60.7

* 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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B. Fruit development & growth Fertilizers Ammonium nitrate Multi-K Haifa MAP Sub-total N Total C. Harvesting - winter Fertilizers Ammonium nitrate Multi-K Haifa MAP Sub-total N Total g/m3 200 - 250 530 - 610 110 - 130 NO3 34 - 42.5 68.9 - 79.3 Plant nutrients g/m3 solution NH4 P* 34 - 42.5 201.4 - 231.8 29.7-35.1 29.7 - 35.1 201.4 - 231.8 K* g/m3 10 - 130 260 - 320 90 - 110 NO3 17 22.1 33.8 41.6 Plant nutrients g/m3 solution NH4 P* 17 22.1 98.8 121.6 24.3 29.7 24.3 98.8 121.6 K*

10.8 13.2 50 - 70 8.5 - 11.9 78.6 - 99

13.2 - 15.6 102.9-121.8 47.2 - 58.1 150.1 - 179.9

D. Harvesting early spring Fertilizers Ammonium nitrate Multi-K Haifa MAP Sub-total N Total g/m3 210 - 200 42 - 500 110 - 130 NO3 35.7 - 34 54.6 - 65 Plant nutrients g/m3 solution NH4 P* 35.7 - 34 159.6 - 190 29.7 35.1 29.7 159.6 K*

13.2 15.6 90.3 - 99 48.9 49.6 139.2 148.6

E. Harvesting - spring - summer Fertilizers Ammonium nitrate Multi-K Haifa MAP Sub-total N Total g/m3 160 - 210 400 - 420 100 - 110 NO3 27.2 35.7 52 54.6 Plant nutrients g/m3 solution NH4 P* 27.2 35.7 152 159.6 27 29.7 27 29.7 152 159.6 K*

12 13.2 79.2 90.3 39.2 48.9 118.4 139.2

* 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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3.2.2 Poly-Feed water soluble NPK fertilizers Table 28: Recommended composition of nutritional solution for soilless-grown peppers A. In moderate or cold climate with low sun radiation and soft water (North and North-East Europe, North France, UK, Japan, Korea) Concentration in irrigation water (ppm) N 190 P 45 K 285 Ca 130 Mg 40 Recommended Poly-Feed formula 14-10-34+ME Conc. (kg/m3) 1.0

Some acid and Haifa 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 (Middle East, Mediterranean countries) Concentration in irrigation water (ppm) N 170 P 40 K 215 Ca 100 Mg 35 Recommended Poly-Feed formula 11-12-33 Conc. (kg/m3) 0.8

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

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Appendix I: Haifa Specialty Fertilizers

Pioneering Solutions
Haifa develops and produces Potassium Nitrate products, Soluble Fertilizers for Nutrigation and foliar sprays, and Controlled-Release Fertilizers. Haifas Agriculture Solutions maximize yields from given inputs of land, water and plant nutrients for diverse farming practices. With innovative plant nutrition schemes and highly efficient application methods, Haifas solutions provide balanced plant nutrition at precise dosing, composition and placing. This ultimately delivers maximum efficiency, optimal plant development and minimized losses to the environment.

Haifa's Potassium Nitrate products represent a unique source of potassium due to their nutritional value and contribution to plant's health and yields. Potassium Nitrate has distinctive chemical and physical properties that are beneficial to the environment. Haifa offers a wide range of potassium nitrate products for Nutrigation, foliar sprays, side-dressing and controlled-release fertilization. Haifa's potassium nitrate products are marketed under the Multi-K brand.

Potassium Nitrate

Multi-K Products
Pure Multi-K Multi-K Classic Multi-K Prills Special Grades Multi-K GG Multi-K pHast Multi-K Top Crystalline potassium nitrate (13-0-46) Potassium nitrate prills (13-0-46) Greenhouse-grade potassium nitrate (13.5-0-46.2) Low-pH potassium nitrate (13.5-0-46.2) Hydroponics-grade potassium nitrate (13.8-0-46.5)

Enriched Products Multi-npK Enriched with phosphate; crystalline or prills Multi-K Mg Enriched with magnesium; crystalline or prills Multi-K Zn Enriched with zinc; crystalline Multi-K S Enriched with sulfate; crystalline Multi-K B Enriched with boron; crystalline or prills Multi-K ME Enriched with magnesium and micronutrients; crystalline

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Nutrigation
Nutrigation (Fertigation) delivers pure plant nutrients through the irrigation system, supplying essential nutrients precisely to the area of most intensive root activity. Haifas well-balanced Nutrigation program provides the plant with their exact needs accordingly with seasonal changes. Decades of experience in production and application of specialty fertilizers for Nutrigation have made Haifa a leading company in this field. Haifa keeps constantly up to date with contemporary scientific and agricultural research, in order to continuously broaden its product line to better meet the requirements of crops and cropping environments. 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 Poly-Feed Haifa MAP Haifa MKP Haifa CAL Magnisal Haifa Micro Haifa VitaPhos-K Haifa ProteK Comprehensive range of plain and enriched potassium nitrate products Soluble NPK fertilizers enriched with secondary and micro-nutrients Mono-ammonium phosphate Mono-potassium phosphate Calcium nitrate Our original magnesium nitrate fertilizer Chelated micronutrients Precipitation-proof poly-phosphate for soilless Nutrigation Systemic PK fertilizer

Foliar Feeding
Foliar Feeding provides fast, on-the-spot supplementary nutrition to ensure high, top quality yields and 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 premium fertilizers for foliar application. 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 Magnisal, Haifa MAP, Haifa MKP, Haifa CAL and Haifa Micro are also suitable for foliar application.

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Controlled Release Nutrition

Multicote, Haifa's range of Controlled Release Fertilizers includes products for agriculture, horticulture, ornamentals and turf. Multicote products provide plants with balanced nutrition according to their growth needs throughout the growth cycle. Multicote products enhance plant growth, improve nutrients use efficiency, save on labor and minimize environmental impact. Single, pre-plant application controlled-release fertilizer can take care of the crops nutritional requirements throughout the growth season. Controlled release fertilizers are designed to feed plants continuously, with maximal efficiency of nutrients uptake. Controlled release fertilizers save labor and application costs. Their application is independent of the irrigation system, and does not require sophisticated equipment. Taking advantage of MulticoTech polymer coating technology, Haifa produces Multicote line of controlled release fertilizers.

Multicote Products
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 golf courses, sports fields, municipals and domestic lawns

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Appendix II: 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 0.9898 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

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

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 -

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