Foliar Feeding 101: What It Is, Why It Works, and How to Do It Right | Growers Mineral Podcast

In this episode, Jim Halbeisen and James Schiltz break down the science, strategy, and real-world success behind foliar feeding—a core part of the Growers Program. You’ll learn: ✅ Why phosphorus fuels plant energy ✅ How calcium improves soil structure and biology ✅ When and how to apply foliar sprays for maximum effect ✅ Why water quality matters (and how to use the jar test) ✅ Real examples from growers using foliar feeding to overcome stress, drought, and poor soil Whether you're growing sweet corn, peaches, or row crops—this episode explains how foliar feeding doesn’t just feed the plant, it powers up the entire soil system. 📌 Chapters: 0:00 – Intro: Why Foliar Feeding Matters 1:05 – Michigan State & Radioactive Isotopes 6:05 – Phosphorus vs. Calcium 9:03 – Feeding Microbes via the Leaf 10:15 – Calcium’s Triple Role 12:20 – Why Most Soils Lack Calcium 14:00 – Timing: Morning vs. Evening 17:10 – Water Quality & the Jar Test 21:50 – Application Rates & Equipment Tips 27:05 – Real-World Results 28:10 – Microbial Symbiosis & Drought Stress 31:10 – Final Thoughts For more success stories and information about the Growers Program, visit us at http://www.growersmineral.com/ or call us at 1-800-437-4769. Find us online! Our Links https://linktr.ee/growersmineral Our Podcast: https://growersmineral.buzzsprout.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrowersMineral/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growersmineral/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/growersmineral