Commercial & Bulk Application Guide
Professional guidelines for landscapers, farmers, and commercial applicators
Our Bulk Products
Elm Dirt offers two flagship liquid concentrate products available in bulk quantities for commercial applications.
Plant Juice
All-purpose vegetative growth formula with 291 species of beneficial bacteria and fungi. Promotes vigorous root, leaf, and stem development.
- Nitrogen & potassium rich
- Verified 2x root mass development
- Reduces transplant shock
- Increases nutrient availability
Bloom Juice
Specialized flowering and fruiting formula with diverse microbes. Enhances bloom production, fruit set, and crop yields.
- Phosphorus, magnesium & calcium
- Extends flowering periods
- Improves stress tolerance
- Enhances nutrient uptake
For Landscapers: Coverage Per 1,000 Sq Ft
Industry-standard measurements for turf, ornamental beds, and landscape maintenance
What Our Products Get You
Client-Safe Applications
Safe for kids, pets, and pollinators immediately after application. No waiting periods, no worried phone calls, no liability concerns. Apply and move on to the next job.
20-30% Less Water Needs
Stronger root systems mean lawns that stay green with less irrigation. Your commercial clients save on water bills, and you reduce callbacks for drought stress issues.
Better Customer Retention
Visible results clients love: greener lawns, healthier plants, reduced weed pressure over time. The kind of results that get you referrals and contract renewals.
Zero Burn Risk
Can't overapply. Won't burn plants even in hot weather. No callbacks for scorched lawns or damaged ornamentals. One less thing to worry about.
Premium Service Positioning
Differentiate from competitors using cheap synthetics. "Organic regenerative lawn care" commands higher prices and attracts eco-conscious commercial clients.
Long-Term Soil Building
Each application improves soil health for next season. Properties get easier to maintain year after year as beneficial microbes establish.
Application Rates & Coverage
| Application Type | Concentrate Per 1,000 Sq Ft | Dilution Rate | Frequency | Annual Usage Per 1,000 Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turf/Lawn Maintenance | 2-3 oz | 2-3 oz per gallon water | Every 14-21 days | 48-72 oz/year (12-18 applications) |
| Ornamental Beds | 2-3 oz | 2-3 oz per gallon water | Every 14-21 days | 48-72 oz/year (12-18 applications) |
| Shrubs & Hedges | 3 oz per application | 3 oz per gallon water | Every 14-21 days | 72 oz/year (18 applications) |
| Trees (Established) | 1 cup (8 oz) per inch trunk diameter | 1 cup per gallon water | 2x yearly (spring/fall) | 16 oz/year per inch diameter |
| Foliar Application | 2-3 oz (covers 1,500-2,000 sq ft) | 2-3 oz per gallon water | Every 14-28 days | 36-54 oz/year (9-18 applications) |
Annual Product Planning Guide
Calculate how much product you'll need for the season based on your maintenance schedule:
Standard Maintenance (Every 21 Days)
12 applications per year
- 1,000 sq ft = 36 oz concentrate (just over 1 quart)
- 5,000 sq ft = 180 oz concentrate (1.4 gallons)
- 10,000 sq ft = 360 oz concentrate (2.8 gallons)
- 1 acre (43,560 sq ft) = 1,306 oz concentrate (10.2 gallons)
Intensive Maintenance (Every 14 Days)
18 applications per year
- 1,000 sq ft = 54 oz concentrate (1.7 quarts)
- 5,000 sq ft = 270 oz concentrate (2.1 gallons)
- 10,000 sq ft = 540 oz concentrate (4.2 gallons)
- 1 acre (43,560 sq ft) = 1,960 oz concentrate (15.3 gallons)
Quick Calculation Examples
Scenario 1: 10,000 sq ft commercial property, every 3 weeks
Solution:
- 10,000 sq ft ÷ 1,000 = 10 units
- 10 units × 2.5 oz = 25 oz per application
- 12 applications/year × 25 oz = 300 oz annually (2.3 gallons)
Scenario 2: 5,000 sq ft residential lawn, premium bi-weekly service
Solution:
- 5,000 sq ft ÷ 1,000 = 5 units
- 5 units × 3 oz = 15 oz per application
- 18 applications/year × 15 oz = 270 oz annually (2.1 gallons)
Scenario 3: Multiple small properties totaling 30,000 sq ft
Solution:
- 30,000 sq ft ÷ 1,000 = 30 units
- 30 units × 2.5 oz = 75 oz per application
- 12 applications/year × 75 oz = 900 oz annually (7 gallons)
For Farmers: Application Per Acre
Agricultural-scale application rates designed to minimize field passes and soil compaction
What These Applications Get You
20-30x Better Nutrient Uptake
Our beneficial microbes create mycorrhizal networks that expand root surface area by 10x and absorb 2-3x more nutrients per root length. This means your crops actually use what you apply instead of losing 60% to runoff.
Reduced Water Needs
Living soil holds significantly more water and helps crops tolerate drought stress. Farmers report 20-30% reduction in irrigation needs during dry periods.
Higher Yields & Quality
Stronger root systems, better nutrient access, and natural pest resistance mean healthier crops with better yields. Our microbes work 24/7 so you don't have to.
Natural Disease Resistance
250+ species of beneficial bacteria and fungi create a protective ecosystem around your crops, crowding out pathogens and reducing disease pressure without chemicals.
Lower Input Costs Over Time
As soil health improves, you'll need less fertilizer each season. The mycorrhizal networks persist year-over-year, making nutrients more available from your existing soil.
Fewer Passes, Less Compaction
One strategic application replaces multiple synthetic applications. Less field traffic means better soil structure, lower fuel costs, and less equipment wear.
Why One Pass Matters
We understand that every trip across your field compacts soil, disrupts root systems, and costs time and fuel. That's why our concentrated formulas are designed for maximum impact in a single annual application—building living soil that keeps working long after you've applied it.
Annual Ground Application
3-5 Gallons Per Acre
Single application at planting or early season. Dilute with water to match your equipment capacity.
Optional Foliar Boost
1-2 Gallons Per Acre
Mid-season if needed. Apply via drone, high-clearance sprayer, or fertigation to avoid soil contact.
| Crop Type | Annual Ground Application | Optional Foliar Boost | Application Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Row Crops (Corn, Soybeans, Cotton) | 3-4 gallons Plant Juice at planting | 1-2 gallons mid-season (optional) | Ground sprayer or in-furrow at planting |
| Small Grains (Wheat, Oats, Barley) | 3 gallons Plant Juice at seeding | 1 gallon at tillering (optional) | Broadcast spray at seeding |
| Orchards & Vineyards | 4-5 gallons at bud break | 2 gallons Bloom Juice at flowering (optional) | Ground sprayer early; airblast for flowering |
| Pasture/Hay Fields | 3-4 gallons Plant Juice in spring | 1-2 gallons after first cutting (optional) | Broadcast spray; avoid heavy traffic on grazing areas |
| Vegetable Production | 4-5 gallons at transplant/seeding | 2 gallons Bloom Juice when flowering (optional) | Drip injection or ground spray |
Low-Impact Application Methods
At-Planting Application
Best for: One-pass soil inoculation
- Apply with existing planting operation
- 3-5 gallons concentrate per acre
- In-furrow, side-dress, or broadcast
- Establishes beneficial microbes early
- No additional field passes needed
Fertigation/Drip Systems
Best for: Irrigated crops with existing infrastructure
- Inject through existing irrigation
- 2-4 gallons per acre per season
- Can split into 2-3 applications via system
- Zero additional field traffic
- Excellent for vegetables and orchards
High-Clearance Foliar
Best for: Established tall crops needing optional boost
- Use high-clearance sprayer
- 1-2 gallons per acre
- Minimal soil contact
- Target critical growth stages
- Reduces compaction vs. standard equipment
Drone Application (Optional)
Best for: Mid-season foliar feeding without soil compaction
- Apply once plants are 12"+ tall
- 1-2 gallons concentrate per acre
- Typical drone capacity: 2-5 gallons
- Refill calculation: For 40 acres at 1.5 gal/acre using a 5-gal drone = 12 refills (60 gallons total)
- Dilute concentrate 1:1 or 1:2 with water
- No field traffic or compaction
- Best in early morning or evening
Note: Not all operations have drone access. Ground and fertigation methods remain most common and effective.
Dilution Guidelines
Our concentrates work with your existing equipment. Calculate your dilution based on total spray volume:
Basic Formula
Desired Concentrate Per Acre ÷ Total Spray Volume = Concentration Ratio
Example 1: Ground sprayer (standard volume)
4 gallons concentrate ÷ 20 gallons total spray = 1:5 ratio (20% concentration)
Example 2: Drone application (concentrated)
1.5 gallons concentrate ÷ 3 gallons total spray = 1:2 ratio (50% concentration)
For 40 acres: Need 60 gallons concentrate + 60 gallons water = 120 gallons total. With 5-gallon drone = 24 trips (12 refills of both concentrate and water)
Example 3: High volume orchard spray
5 gallons concentrate ÷ 50 gallons total spray = 1:10 ratio (10% concentration)
Critical Timing Note
For best results with minimal passes: Apply your annual ground application at planting or early season when you're already in the field. The beneficial microbes establish quickly and keep working all season. If supplemental nutrition is needed mid-season, use drone, high-clearance, or fertigation methods that don't require additional tractor passes across the field.
Compatible Application Equipment
Elm Dirt products work with most commercial and agricultural spraying equipment. Select the right equipment for your operation scale.
Backpack Sprayers
2-5 gallon capacity
Ideal for small-scale landscaping, spot treatments, and detailed ornamental work.
- Manual pump or battery-powered
- Adjustable nozzles
- Typical brands: Solo, Chapin, Field King
Tow-Behind Sprayers
15-100 gallon capacity
Perfect for lawn care companies and estate maintenance professionals.
- ATV or small tractor attachment
- Boom or wand application
- Typical brands: Fimco, Agri-Fab, NorthStar
Skid-Mounted Units
100-300 gallon capacity
Commercial landscaping operations and small-scale farming applications.
- Truck or trailer mounted
- High-volume output
- Typical brands: Hypro, TeeJet, Gregson-Clark
Agricultural Sprayers
300-1000+ gallon capacity
Large-scale farming operations, orchards, and extensive acreage coverage.
- Self-propelled or pull-type
- Wide boom systems
- Typical brands: John Deere, Case IH, Hardi
Fertigation Systems
Variable capacity
Greenhouse operations, drip irrigation, and hydroponic systems.
- Injector pumps and dosing systems
- Automated scheduling
- Typical brands: Dosatron, Anderson, Mazzei
Hose-End Sprayers
Direct attachment
Small operations and residential properties. Limited commercial use.
- Direct hose connection
- Set dilution to 2 oz per gallon
- Best for properties under 5,000 sq ft
Equipment Compatibility Notes
- Nozzle Selection: Use flat fan, cone, or flood nozzles. Avoid ultra-fine mist nozzles that may clog with organic matter.
- Mesh Size: Solids are filtered down to 400 microns. 50-mesh screens are generally adequate. Finer screens (80-100 mesh) may require more frequent cleaning.
- Material Compatibility: Our products are compatible with polyethylene, polypropylene, stainless steel, and most rubber gaskets.
- Agitation: Mechanical agitation is recommended for tanks larger than 100 gallons to maintain suspension.
Mandatory Pre-Application Cleaning Protocol
Flush Entire System
Remove all residues from previous products. Many synthetic fertilizers and pesticides leave chemical residues that will kill beneficial microorganisms in Elm Dirt products or react with organic compounds causing clogs.
Clean with Appropriate Solution
Use clean water with mild detergent or equipment-specific tank cleaner. Flush through all lines, nozzles, and filters.
- For synthetic chemical residue: Triple rinse minimum
- For herbicide residue: Use ammonia-based cleaner or activated charcoal
- For oil-based products: Use degreasing agent
Inspect and Clean Filters
Remove all filters and screens. Clean or replace if contaminated. Previous product residue commonly accumulates in filters and will be reintroduced into your spray solution.
Final Rinse
Flush entire system with clean water. Run water through nozzles to ensure complete clearing of all lines.
Verify pH (Optional but Recommended)
If your water pH is extreme (below 5 or above 9), adjust to 6-8 range for optimal microbial activity.
Why Cleaning Matters: Contamination Risks
Microbial Die-Off
Residual synthetic pesticides, fungicides, or herbicides will kill the beneficial bacteria and fungi that make Elm Dirt products effective. This completely eliminates the biological benefits you're paying for.
Chemical Reactions
Organic acids and proteins in our products can react with alkaline or acidic chemical residues, forming precipitates that clog filters, screens, and nozzles. These clogs are extremely difficult to clean and may require equipment disassembly.
Equipment Damage
Certain chemical combinations can create corrosive compounds that damage seals, gaskets, and pump components. This is especially true with copper-based fungicides or high-salt fertilizers mixing with organic matter.
Reduced Efficacy
Even small amounts of incompatible residue can significantly reduce product performance, resulting in poor results and requiring reapplication at your expense.
Product Warranty Disclaimer
Elm Dirt is not responsible for:
- Product failure due to contaminated equipment
- Equipment damage caused by chemical reactions with residues from other products
- Clogged filters, nozzles, or lines resulting from inadequate cleaning
- Crop damage or loss due to improper application or equipment contamination
- Performance issues when products are mixed with incompatible chemicals
It is the sole responsibility of the applicator to ensure equipment is properly cleaned and maintained before use. By purchasing bulk quantities, you acknowledge and accept these cleaning requirements.
Storage & Handling Guidelines
Temperature Control
Store in temperature-controlled environment. Avoid freezing. Extreme heat (above 110°F) may reduce microbial viability over time.
Light Protection
Store in original containers away from direct sunlight. UV light can degrade organic compounds and harm beneficial microorganisms.
Container Integrity
Keep containers tightly sealed when not in use. Ensure caps and closures are properly secured to prevent contamination and evaporation.
Shelf Life
1 year from manufacture date when stored properly. Product remains effective but microbial counts gradually decrease after this period.
Agitation Before Use
Shake or agitate containers before each use. Natural settling occurs during storage. Sediment is normal and beneficial.
Mixed Solution
Once diluted with water, apply within 24 hours for maximum microbial activity. Do not store diluted solution.
Best Practices for Bulk Handling
Water Quality
Use dechlorinated water whenever possible. If using municipal water with chlorine, let water sit for 24 hours or use a carbon filter. Well water and rainwater are ideal.
Mixing Sequence
Always add concentrate to water (not water to concentrate). Fill spray tank 1/2 to 3/4 full with water first, add concentrate while agitating, then top off with remaining water.
Application Timing
Apply early morning or late afternoon/evening to avoid heat stress and UV degradation. Avoid application if rain is expected within 2 hours.
Spray Pressure
Use moderate spray pressure (30-60 PSI for most applications). Excessive pressure can shear beneficial microorganisms.
Bulk Customer Support
Our team is here to help you succeed with your commercial applications. Whether you need application advice, technical support, or custom formulation consultation, we're ready to assist.
Email Support
support@elmdirt.com
Response within 24 business hours
Phone Support
816-890-6750
Mon-Fri: 9 AM - 5 PM CST
Headquarters
14210 Norby Rd
Grandview, MO 64030
Visit by appointment
Additional Resources
Our Commitment to Bulk Customers
We stand behind our products with a 180-day satisfaction guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied with the results from Elm Dirt products when used as directed with properly cleaned equipment, we'll work with you to make it right.
