The TURF[TECH]REPORT – Iron’s Function in Plant Health

February 2, 2018

Iron is one of the most recognizable micronutrients in plant science. Although needed in small quantities, its impact on plant health is profound. Iron is a key component of various enzymes involved in the synthesis of chlorophyll (dark green pigmented molecules that drive photosynthesis in plants). Iron transports oxygen, as well as carries electrons throughout the plant. When turf grass is suffering from an iron deficiency, its physical appearance is negatively impacted. Turf grass that exhibits a rich, deep green color can only be achieved when iron is abundant in the soil. Interestingly, iron comes in many forms. In this article, we’ll discuss the various forms of iron available in the market so that you can choose which form is best for your turf.

IRON UPTAKE IN PLANTS
Iron uptake typically occurs under the soil surface at the root tips. Iron is transported in the form of various organic complexes or chemical compounds, but rarely in its pure atomic form. The common forms of iron that plants uptake are the oxidized states, Fe2+ (ferrous form - soluble) and Fe3+ (ferric form –insoluble). Uptake occurs in various ways, including a chelation mechanism whereby plants release siderophores (molecules that bind and transport iron which enhance iron’s solubility.) Iron is most efficiently taken up by new roots or root hairs, so it is important to maintain a healthy and active root system for optimal plant health.

IRON CHELATE (can be a foliar spray)
This is a form of iron that can easily be absorbed by turf, resulting in a quick response when applied to soil. Chelated iron is responsible for the quick green up observed within a few days after application. Since most plants already produce small amounts of chelates, this additional application will allow the plant to obtain iron more efficiently, especially in soils that are experiencing less than optimal pH levels. Iron chelates protect iron from converting into a less available form. There are three forms of chelated iron:
  • DTPA iron: Largest molecules of the iron chelates. Stable up to a pH of 7.0, can bond with multiple metals and other compounds to help transport iron into the plant easier.
  • EDDHA iron: Mid-range molecule size of the iron chelates. Most stable of the iron chelates; most resistant to converting into a less available form of iron at almost every pH range.
  • EDTA iron: Smallest molecules of the iron chelates. Stable up to a pH of 6.5; can bond with multiple metals and other compounds to help iron transport into the plant easier. Will more readily release its iron atom once transported to its destination within the plant.
NATURAL ORGANICS
Natural organics such as biosolids, iron humate and compost contain small amounts of iron. Iron found in natural organic compounds tends to be more available to the plant since it is naturally present in the organic substrate. Larger amounts of organics need to be used due to these compounds typically containing small amounts of iron. Staining still may occur on concreted, but less likely compared to sulfates, sucrates and oxides.

OPTIMAL IRON LEVELS IN SOIL
35-100ppm
  • Note: mg/kg is equivalent to parts per million (ppm)
IRON IN SOIL – FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE IRON AVAILABILITY 
According to the Nutri-Facts facts article, “It’s not Surprising–Iron Is Required by Plants,” most soils contain thousands of pounds of iron but much of it is not readily available for plant uptake; this is why iron deficiencies in turf are so common. As mentioned previously, iron aids in the synthesis of chlorophyll, so it’s no surprise that plants deficient in iron suffer from a condition called “chlorosis.” Chlorosis is commonly diagnosed by a pale green color, yellowing sheathes, sharp distinction between its interveinal issues and its leaf veins. Often these symptom first appear when younger leaves begin to yellow. Severe iron deficiency symptoms can manifest by turning the entire plant white. There are several different soil factors that can influence and lead to iron deficiencies, such as:

 SOIL pH IMBALANCES Iron becomes readily available in a soil where pH is 6.0. Liming acidic soils is a necessity in order to optimize turf health but an overload of applications can cause iron deficiencies.


 LOW LEVELS OF ORGANIC MATTER

Many plants are unable to take up nutrients from the soil without the assistance of organic compounds produced by beneficial microbes. These small living organisms consume organic matter (dead plant residues) and through digestion, turn this matter into nutrients a plant can absorb, thus fostering the kind of environment that promotes plant growth and health. Low levels of beneficial soil microbes may indirectly lead to low levels of available iron for plant consumption.


 NUTRIENT IMBALANCE

The proper distribution of primary (N, P, K), secondary nutrients (Ca, Mg, S) and micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Mo, Cl, N) in the soil (and ultimately in the plant) is fundamental in order to fully reap the benefits of proper turf management practices ( fertilizer , control products and soil amendment applications). A balance between all these nutrients is essential in order to maintain a soil conducive to optimal turf health. For example, excessive phosphorous (P) levels can trigger iron deficiencies. Focusing on feeding the soil can enhance plant/lawn health and nutrient uptake.


Iron deficiencies in turf are sometimes difficult to pin-point because multiple factors (including but not limited to other nutrient deficiencies or imbalances) can overshadow them. The absence of iron may also be mistaken for pest infestations, disease or herbicide damage. If chlorosis-like symptoms occur, test the soil to establish existing soil fertility, pH, and composition.


 MANAGING IRON DEFICIENCIES 

Iron deficiencies can be managed with a short-term application of an iron-based foliar spray or with nitrogen fertilizers, although the best mode of action is prevention. New roots and root hairs become active during the iron uptake process. When outside factors interfere with root development (such as poorly balanced soils or imbalanced nutrients), iron uptake is disrupted. Identifying the true cause of an iron deficiency with a soil test can create a better understanding of why iron is depleted in turf while preventing the problem from occurring again. Focusing on (1) feeding the soil and (2) maintaining a healthy and active root system are paramount in helping to keep turf free from any potential iron deficiencies.


For professional fertilizers, humic and AMP-XC™ enriched products available, please visit TurfCare’s online Product Catalog.
 
For green industry professionals or others interested in ordering Turfcare products, please contact our Customer Service to find a distributor near you.

Resources:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/iron-for-plants.htm
http://www.agrsci.jp/ras/article/view/12/26
http://www.fritind.com/nutri_facts.html
http://www.fritind.com/pdf/IRON_nutri.PDF
http://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1019&context=cafes_dean
https://extension.psu.edu/turfgrass-fertilization-a-basic-guide-for-professional-turfgrass-managers
https://www.incitecpivotfertilisers.com.au/en/Agronomy/~/media/Files/IPF%20Migration/FertFacts/IronFS/IronFSV3IIPLGK14042010.ashx
http://plantprobs.net/plant/nutrientImbalances/iron.html
https://blog.brightagrotech.com/iron-in-aquaponics/
http://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1019&context=cafes_dean
http://www.smart-fertilizer.com/articles/iron
http://slideplayer.com/slide/5924362/
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/SS/SS55500.pdf
https://www.solverchem.com/articles/chemical-fertilizers/how-to-make-edta-chelated-iron-fertilizers/details
http://www.lsuagcenter.com/~/media/system/e/2/0/1/e201c02bedabf7de30e2e6e48ce99d0e/pub2895ironingyourturfgrasslowres.pdf

The TURFReport Highlights:

Additional Articles and Insights

January 30, 2026
White Plains, NY – January 30, 2026 – Interoceanic Corporation (“IOC”) announced today that its affiliate Spring Valley USA (Spring Valley) , has acquired the blending and packaging assets and business of Turf Care Supply, LLC, a leading manufacturer and blender of turf and ornamental fertilizers as well as ice melt. The combination of Spring Valley and Turf Care Supply’s blending business, forms one of the largest independent lawn and garden fertilizer platforms in North America. The integrated business will have approximately 250 employees and will operate eight manufacturing and blending facilities across seven states, enabling coast-to-coast coverage of customers. By uniting two highly complementary companies, this acquisition creates a world-class turf & ornamental supply company positioned to deliver enhanced value to both professional and retail customers. “This acquisition is a transformative step for our organization,” said Elio Mazzella , President of IOC and Spring Valley. “By bringing Turf Care Supply into the IOC family, we are significantly expanding our reach and capabilities in serving the lawn and garden industry. The combined company will have an unrivaled production footprint and product portfolio, which means we can offer our customers faster service, greater efficiency, and innovative solutions on a national scale. Our goal is to build a world-class platform that blends the strengths of both businesses – the supply chain efficiencies of the combined business and the family-business values – will drive growth for our customers and vendor partners.” With the closing of the transaction, Turf Care Supply, LLC will be renamed Allied Nutrients and continue to manufacture leading enhanced efficiency fertilizers (“EEF”) out of its Martins Ferry, Ohio facility. Mark Mangan, President of Allied Nutrients, commented, “we want to thank our long-time employees that will be joining the IOC family and wish them well. We have known the IOC team for many years and believe this will be a great home. At the same time, we are excited for our remaining employees as we focus our resources and efforts on providing the best EEF solutions to the turf and ornamental market.” With this acquisition, the combined company now operates manufacturing facilities in Wisconsin, Ohio, Texas, Florida, Massachusetts, Tennessee, and Oklahoma, giving it the ability to blend and package fertilizer products and ice melt closer to customers in every major region. Turf Care Supply’s sites in Hatfield (MA), Sebring (FL), Cleveland (TN), and Catoosa (OK) will join Spring Valley’s existing plants in Jackson (WI), Fostoria (OH), Greenville (TX), and Longwood (FL). This expanded footprint significantly reduces transit times and enhances supply reliability for our customers. Maintaining strong customer relationships during and after the integration is a top priority. “All of our customers will continue to receive the outstanding service and product quality they expect, now with the added benefit of a truly national production network,” Mazzella added. Each major customer will be supported by an expanded team dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition and ongoing success. Strategically, the merger of Spring Valley and Turf Care Supply unlocks significant commercial synergies that will benefit both our customers and vendor partners. Together, the company will offer the most comprehensive product portfolio in the industry. “This combination is about building a platform that is perfectly suited to support our customers growth,” said Mazzella. “By combining our R&D and product development efforts, we intend to bring new, high-value solutions to market that neither company could have achieved alone.” The integration of the two businesses is already underway, with a focus on maintaining operational continuity and exceptional customer service throughout the spring season. The company also emphasized that all Turf Care Supply employees are being welcomed into the organization, and that the combined workforce will play a crucial role in driving the business forward. “This is an exciting moment for all of us. By uniting two great teams, we’re creating a stronger company with a shared commitment to our customers’ and vendors success, ” Mazzella noted. About Interoceanic Corporation (IOC): Based in White Plains, NY, IOC is a diversified family-owned company specializing in the production, marketing, and distribution of fertilizer and industrial chemical products. Other notable affiliates of IOC are PCI Nitrogen, Columbia River Nitrogen and EM² Enterprises. With this transaction, the group of businesses consist of over 600 employees. IOC’s family values, entrepreneurial spirit, and supply chain expertise have driven its growth from a regional fertilizer distributor into an international platform that provides reliable, high-quality products. About Allied Nutrients: Based in Brunswick, OH, Allied Nutrients specializes in providing enhanced efficiency fertilizers that support turfgrass and ornamental plant health. Through world-class manufacturing and research and development, the company offers a comprehensive portfolio of products, including SCU, PCU, PCSCU, reacted slow-release nitrogen, and urease inhibitors. These solutions are marketed under leading brands, such as XCU, TTRU, UFLEXX, UMAXX, Nutralene, and Nitroform. 
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A large fertilizer manufacturing facility
April 18, 2025
Turf Care Supply, LLC, a portfolio company of Platte River Equity, has officially acquired Beaty Fertilizer, the industry respected Tennessee-based manufacturer and blender of custom granular and liquid fertilizers, as well as combination products. This strategic move expands Turf Care’s manufacturing footprint, adds new product capabilities, and enhances overall production capacity.
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Dear Valued Industry Partners and Customers, We are pleased to announce that Turf Care Supply, LLC has acquired Agri-Nutrients, Inc. (October 1, 2024) a respected manufacturer in the turf and ornamental fertilizer industry. This acquisition marks a significant step forward in our commitment to providing you with an expanded range of innovative products, services, and industry expertise, all designed to support your business’s continued growth and success. As a valued partner or customer, you will benefit from enhanced service capabilities and an extended geographic reach, thanks to Agri-Nutrients, Inc.’s strategic facility located in the Port of Catoosa, Oklahoma. With this established presence in the Southwest and Western markets, Turf Care Supply, LLC’s expanded operational footprint will allow us to serve a broader region with greater efficiency, delivering even stronger support to help drive your business forward. We are dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition while maintaining the high standards of service you expect. If you have any questions or would like to explore how this new location can enhance your operations, please feel free to contact your account manager or our customer service team. Thank you for your continued trust in Turf Care Supply, LLC . We look forward to partnering with you as we grow together and continue supporting your success. Sincerely, Mark ManganPresidentTurf Care Supply, LLC
A forklift is sitting in a garage next to another forklift.
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With a focus on providing sustainable manufacturing and reducing carbon emissions, Turf Care Supply has embraced the electric power market with the latest mobile equipment upgrades. Completed in June 2023, TCS received all deliveries of electric forklifts to all three manufacturing facilities, including Hatfield, MA, Martins Ferry, OH and Sebring, FL.
A person is holding a safety data sheet in front of bottles
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When handling fertilizers and pesticide it is important to follow suggested guidelines and prioritize safety to protect yourself, others, and reduce environmental impact. Here are some general measures to follow: 1.Read and Follow Instructions: Carefully read and understand the product labels, safety data sheets (SDS), and any accompanying instructions provided by the manufacturer. Follow all recommended guidelines, precautions, and application rates.
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January 30, 2026
White Plains, NY – January 30, 2026 – Interoceanic Corporation (“IOC”) announced today that its affiliate Spring Valley USA (Spring Valley) , has acquired the blending and packaging assets and business of Turf Care Supply, LLC, a leading manufacturer and blender of turf and ornamental fertilizers as well as ice melt. The combination of Spring Valley and Turf Care Supply’s blending business, forms one of the largest independent lawn and garden fertilizer platforms in North America. The integrated business will have approximately 250 employees and will operate eight manufacturing and blending facilities across seven states, enabling coast-to-coast coverage of customers. By uniting two highly complementary companies, this acquisition creates a world-class turf & ornamental supply company positioned to deliver enhanced value to both professional and retail customers. “This acquisition is a transformative step for our organization,” said Elio Mazzella , President of IOC and Spring Valley. “By bringing Turf Care Supply into the IOC family, we are significantly expanding our reach and capabilities in serving the lawn and garden industry. The combined company will have an unrivaled production footprint and product portfolio, which means we can offer our customers faster service, greater efficiency, and innovative solutions on a national scale. Our goal is to build a world-class platform that blends the strengths of both businesses – the supply chain efficiencies of the combined business and the family-business values – will drive growth for our customers and vendor partners.” With the closing of the transaction, Turf Care Supply, LLC will be renamed Allied Nutrients and continue to manufacture leading enhanced efficiency fertilizers (“EEF”) out of its Martins Ferry, Ohio facility. Mark Mangan, President of Allied Nutrients, commented, “we want to thank our long-time employees that will be joining the IOC family and wish them well. We have known the IOC team for many years and believe this will be a great home. At the same time, we are excited for our remaining employees as we focus our resources and efforts on providing the best EEF solutions to the turf and ornamental market.” With this acquisition, the combined company now operates manufacturing facilities in Wisconsin, Ohio, Texas, Florida, Massachusetts, Tennessee, and Oklahoma, giving it the ability to blend and package fertilizer products and ice melt closer to customers in every major region. Turf Care Supply’s sites in Hatfield (MA), Sebring (FL), Cleveland (TN), and Catoosa (OK) will join Spring Valley’s existing plants in Jackson (WI), Fostoria (OH), Greenville (TX), and Longwood (FL). This expanded footprint significantly reduces transit times and enhances supply reliability for our customers. Maintaining strong customer relationships during and after the integration is a top priority. “All of our customers will continue to receive the outstanding service and product quality they expect, now with the added benefit of a truly national production network,” Mazzella added. Each major customer will be supported by an expanded team dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition and ongoing success. Strategically, the merger of Spring Valley and Turf Care Supply unlocks significant commercial synergies that will benefit both our customers and vendor partners. Together, the company will offer the most comprehensive product portfolio in the industry. “This combination is about building a platform that is perfectly suited to support our customers growth,” said Mazzella. “By combining our R&D and product development efforts, we intend to bring new, high-value solutions to market that neither company could have achieved alone.” The integration of the two businesses is already underway, with a focus on maintaining operational continuity and exceptional customer service throughout the spring season. The company also emphasized that all Turf Care Supply employees are being welcomed into the organization, and that the combined workforce will play a crucial role in driving the business forward. “This is an exciting moment for all of us. By uniting two great teams, we’re creating a stronger company with a shared commitment to our customers’ and vendors success, ” Mazzella noted. About Interoceanic Corporation (IOC): Based in White Plains, NY, IOC is a diversified family-owned company specializing in the production, marketing, and distribution of fertilizer and industrial chemical products. Other notable affiliates of IOC are PCI Nitrogen, Columbia River Nitrogen and EM² Enterprises. With this transaction, the group of businesses consist of over 600 employees. IOC’s family values, entrepreneurial spirit, and supply chain expertise have driven its growth from a regional fertilizer distributor into an international platform that provides reliable, high-quality products. About Allied Nutrients: Based in Brunswick, OH, Allied Nutrients specializes in providing enhanced efficiency fertilizers that support turfgrass and ornamental plant health. Through world-class manufacturing and research and development, the company offers a comprehensive portfolio of products, including SCU, PCU, PCSCU, reacted slow-release nitrogen, and urease inhibitors. These solutions are marketed under leading brands, such as XCU, TTRU, UFLEXX, UMAXX, Nutralene, and Nitroform. 
The hidden cost of filler: how to maximize your fertilizer ROI. Shows hand holding filler .
January 22, 2026
Want to maximize your ROI and turf health? Ditch the filler and replace your blends with Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizers (EEFs), Micro packs, Soil Amendments, or organic materials. These alternatives can reduce your seasonal application of bags, reduce overall material cost and deliver better results!
A large fertilizer manufacturing facility
April 18, 2025
Turf Care Supply, LLC, a portfolio company of Platte River Equity, has officially acquired Beaty Fertilizer, the industry respected Tennessee-based manufacturer and blender of custom granular and liquid fertilizers, as well as combination products. This strategic move expands Turf Care’s manufacturing footprint, adds new product capabilities, and enhances overall production capacity.
grubs on dirt
April 18, 2025
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October 9, 2024
Platte River Equity Portfolio Company Turf Care Supply, LLC Acquires Agri-Nutrients, Inc.
October 4, 2024
Dear Valued Industry Partners and Customers, We are pleased to announce that Turf Care Supply, LLC has acquired Agri-Nutrients, Inc. (October 1, 2024) a respected manufacturer in the turf and ornamental fertilizer industry. This acquisition marks a significant step forward in our commitment to providing you with an expanded range of innovative products, services, and industry expertise, all designed to support your business’s continued growth and success. As a valued partner or customer, you will benefit from enhanced service capabilities and an extended geographic reach, thanks to Agri-Nutrients, Inc.’s strategic facility located in the Port of Catoosa, Oklahoma. With this established presence in the Southwest and Western markets, Turf Care Supply, LLC’s expanded operational footprint will allow us to serve a broader region with greater efficiency, delivering even stronger support to help drive your business forward. We are dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition while maintaining the high standards of service you expect. If you have any questions or would like to explore how this new location can enhance your operations, please feel free to contact your account manager or our customer service team. Thank you for your continued trust in Turf Care Supply, LLC . We look forward to partnering with you as we grow together and continue supporting your success. Sincerely, Mark ManganPresidentTurf Care Supply, LLC
A forklift is sitting in a garage next to another forklift.
September 28, 2023
With a focus on providing sustainable manufacturing and reducing carbon emissions, Turf Care Supply has embraced the electric power market with the latest mobile equipment upgrades. Completed in June 2023, TCS received all deliveries of electric forklifts to all three manufacturing facilities, including Hatfield, MA, Martins Ferry, OH and Sebring, FL.
A person is holding a safety data sheet in front of bottles
July 19, 2023
When handling fertilizers and pesticide it is important to follow suggested guidelines and prioritize safety to protect yourself, others, and reduce environmental impact. Here are some general measures to follow: 1.Read and Follow Instructions: Carefully read and understand the product labels, safety data sheets (SDS), and any accompanying instructions provided by the manufacturer. Follow all recommended guidelines, precautions, and application rates.
Show More