This General Use Note provides high-level guidance on how Agri-Talya soil improver products can be integrated into different cropping systems. It is intended for growers, advisers and distributors who are considering the use of geothermal diatomite-based biominerals (such as Almina) and other soil improvers in their programmes.

This document:

• does not replace the official product label, technical datasheet or Safety Data Sheet (SDS), and
• does not constitute a full agronomic recommendation for any specific farm.

Always refer to the product's own label and technical literature first.

This note applies in general terms to:

• arable crops (for example: wheat, barley, maize, oilseeds, industrial crops),
• vegetable production (open field and protected),
• fruit orchards, vineyards and olives,
• ornamental crops, turf and landscape applications,

where Agri-Talya soil improvers are used as part of a wider nutrition and soil-management programme.

Because soils, climates and farming systems differ widely, everything in this note should be treated as general guidance, not as a fixed recipe.

3.1 Soil applications

• Follow the application timings and rates indicated on the product label and technical datasheet.
• Where possible, integrate soil improver applications with existing operations such as:
  • base fertiliser application,
  • cultivation or seedbed preparation,
  • banding near the seed row, or
  • fertigation / drip lines (if suitable for the product).
• Light irrigation or adequate soil moisture after application can help move the product into the root zone.
• Applying well above the recommended rate is usually uneconomic and may create unintended side effects, depending on the product and soil.

3.2 Foliar applications

• Only use foliar applications where the specific product is labelled and authorised for foliar use.
• Respect the recommended concentration and water volume per hectare.
• As a general rule:
  • avoid the hottest and windiest times of day,
  • favour early morning or late afternoon when leaf-burn risk is lower, and
  • if trying a new tank mix, always test a small area first.

3.3 Irrigation system / fertigation

• Some products in the Agri-Talya portfolio may be suitable for use through drip irrigation or fertigation systems; only do this if the label and technical datasheet explicitly support it.
• When using soil improvers via irrigation:
  • follow the recommended dilution and injection procedures,
  • respect any filtration requirements to avoid emitter blockage, and
  • run the system long enough to distribute the product evenly through the target zone.

3.4 Seed, seedlings and transplant-related applications

• If a product has an authorised use for seed coating, transplant solutions or nursery applications, this will be clearly indicated in the label and technical literature.
• In these situations:
  • use only the recommended rates and formulations,
  • avoid overdosing, which can affect seed germination or early growth, and
  • start with small-scale tests before moving to full-area use.

To get the best from soil improvers – and to avoid unnecessary risks – decisions should be based on local data rather than general assumptions.

We strongly recommend:

• soil analysis (and, where relevant, irrigation water and plant tissue analysis),
• a review of the current fertiliser, irrigation and crop-protection programmes, and
• discussion of results with:
  • an independent agronomist or crop adviser, and/or
  • the relevant technical contact from your distributor or Agri-Talya partner.

Before using any new soil improver at full farm scale, growers should:

1. run a small-area trial or a few comparison strips,
2. monitor soil behaviour, root development, crop growth and quality indicators, and
3. evaluate the results together with their adviser.

This approach is particularly important under stressful conditions, such as drought, salinity, extreme temperatures or tight rotations.

• Always check the product label and technical datasheet for compatibility information before mixing with fertilisers, micronutrients or plant-protection products.
• If a specific combination is not documented, perform a simple jar test or bucket test in a small volume of water to check for flocculation, sedimentation or heat before preparing a full tank.
• As a general mixing order:
  • add water first,
  • then difficult-to-dissolve fertilisers (if any),
  • then liquid fertilisers and compatible additives,
  • then the soil improver product,
  • and finally any wetters or spreaders, if appropriate and permitted.

Never mix products where the label explicitly states "do not mix" or warns against certain combinations.

• Follow all safety instructions on the product label and in the SDS. As a minimum, operators should:
  • avoid unnecessary dust or aerosol exposure,
  • use appropriate personal protective equipment (for example gloves, eye protection and a suitable mask) where recommended, and
  • wash hands and exposed skin after handling.
• Store products in their original packaging, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and animals.
• Do not store products near food, feed or drinking water.
• Empty packaging should be rinsed and disposed of according to local regulations; do not discard into irrigation channels, drains or natural watercourses.

This General Use Note:

• is provided for general information and education only,
• does not replace the official product label, technical datasheet or Safety Data Sheet (SDS), and
• does not constitute legal, regulatory or full agronomic advice for any particular farm, crop or country.

Final decisions on the use of any Agri-Talya product must always be taken:

• in line with the product label and technical documentation,
• in compliance with local laws and assurance schemes, and
• in consultation with a qualified adviser who understands the specific conditions of the farm.

Agri-Talya, Kozok Limited and their distribution partners cannot be held responsible for results arising from misuse of products, applications outside the label instructions, or practices that are not compliant with local regulations.