Kozgro's Agricultural Field Blend (AFB) can help to control these common problems associated with onion production: nematode, thrip, onion maggot, pink root, butt rot, mildew, etc. Kozgro's organic AFB also helps to break down crop residue faster.
One of the most important advantages of the Kozgro program is in most cases, using AFB helps to eliminate the need to fumigate, or to use a nematicide, to control nematodes and other parasitic soil organisms. The AFB accomplishes this by setting up a conducive environment in the soil, which enables beneficial microorganisms to flourish. These predatory microorganisms feed on and help control Parasitic Nematodes, and other soil born pests that hamper onion production.
Onion farmers on the Kozgro program report higher onion production, higher quality onions that store better, and a mellower soil with fewer clods. They also report having fewer problems with thrip and other insects, and have been able to control pink root and butt rot. |
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The AFB helps to make more of the fertilizer available to the plant. The fertilizer will also remain in the root zone longer, while the losses from leaching, volatilization, and being tied up, are reduced. This is the reason for normally cutting back on nitrogen fertilizer by 20 to 25% the first year when using the Kozgro program.
Farmers also enjoy the benefit of a water savings of up to 25% when using the Kozgro program. This is because the AFB helps to build humus in the soil, as it has an active humic acid in it. As the humus increases in the soil, water retention increases. Also, water penetration improves to the point other products are not needed to do this.
Thrip is one of the most damaging insect pests to onions. When using AFB, farmers have found they do not have to spray nearly as often for thrip, and in some cases are not bothered by thrip at all on their onions. Farmers have noted fewer problems with other insect pests, as well. With less insect damage to the onions, many disease problems are also avoided, as these insect pests are vectors (carriers) of many common onion diseases. AFB also helps to build a healthier immune system. A healthier immune system in turn will help to increase the sugar level in the plant. A high sugar level in the plant is very important, as chewing and sucking insects can excrete sugar, but are unable to tolerate a plant high in sugar. If a chewing or sucking insect ingests too much sugar, it is affected with a condition similar to severe diarrhea, resulting in death. Normally, when the sugar content is high enough in the onion plant, insects will simply avoid feeding on it.
In the early stages of the Kozgro program, you will normally find the soil will be more mellow, and the soil will have better water penetration and retention. You will generally have a more uniform stand with a better root system. Next, look for better plant growth, less insect and disease problems, with larger bulb size. The end result is more production of higher quality onions that store better, at less cost.
Kozgro's organic fertilizer and plant food, AFB, is a liquid and very easy to use. It is most effective when applied broadcast. It can be applied through center pivot irrigation, if the proper injection equipment is used. Timing of application is extremely important for maximum results. Contact your Kozgro dealer, or check the Kozgro Application Chart for application rates and times.
KOZGRO WORKS WITH THE CAUSE, NOT THE SYMPTOM |
