Iron Deficiency Chlorosis (IDC) is a significant problem for soybean farmers, especially those working with high pH soils. IDC occurs when iron in the soil becomes unavailable to plants, resulting in yellowing leaves and reduced yields. While soybeans are most affected due to their widespread cultivation, other legumes such as dry edible beans and peas can also experience this issue.
Iron plays a crucial role in plant health, particularly as a co-factor for enzymes involved in chlorophyll production. Without enough iron, plants cannot produce sufficient chlorophyll, which is essential for photosynthesis.
Traditional management of IDC has involved either attempting to lower soil pH over time or applying chelated iron products like Soygreen. These chelating agents keep iron available to plants by surrounding the metal ions and preventing them from binding with other molecules in the soil. However, chemical chelation technologies such as ortho-ortho EDDHA used in Soygreen may release iron too quickly if they encounter another molecule with a stronger affinity. This can result in free iron binding with soil particles again and becoming unavailable to plants. Additionally, these agents are persistent in soils and may cause future tie-up issues.
A newer approach uses Iron EPC, which employs peptide chelation instead of traditional chemical methods. The peptides form a ring around the iron molecule, reducing its interaction with other minerals and limiting long-term tie-up problems. When plant roots encounter Iron EPC, both the peptide and the iron are absorbed together.
In terms of application, Iron EPC differs from standard chelated products by being brown like coffee and mixing easily with water or fertilizers without leaving residue on equipment. In contrast, traditional products tend to be thick and red, making cleanup more difficult.
The company states: “When it comes to managing IDC, you shouldn’t have to choose between effective iron uptake and the long-term health of your soil. While traditional chemical chelators like Soygreen have been the industry standard for years, the potential for future ‘tie-up’ and the hassle of handling thick, red residue make them a difficult partner for your equipment and your bottom line.”
Farmers interested in Iron EPC can purchase it through FBN Direct, which offers bulk fertilizer options along with transparent pricing, direct-to-farm delivery, and flexible financing plans designed for agricultural operations.
The product is compared against others such as Brandt Sequestar 4.5% Fe EDTA and Soygreen AST based on active ingredients—plant nutrient Iron (Fe) and Nitrogen (N)—and price points ranging from $34.49 to $38.45 per gallon depending on payment method.
FBN Direct products are distributed by FBN Inputs LLC only where licensed or registered for sale or use according to state regulations. The company emphasizes that all purchases must comply with federal and state pesticide laws: “ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. It is a violation of federal and state law to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its label.”
Buyers should verify that any product fits their specific crop needs before purchase since all information provided is subject to change without notice.