Q.I Have Used Diluted Chempak Calcium To Feed Strawberries. I Am Told Berries May Be Unsafe To Eat. True?
I used Chempak calcium diluted according to instructions as a general feed. While watering, inevitably, some of the liquid splashed onto the green developing fruit. I am now informed by Thompson and Morgan, Chempak suppliers, that they cannot guarantee that the strawberries which will be ripe in about two weeks will be safe to eat. There are no warnings to this effect on the packaging and in addition to watering foliar spraying is recommended for a wide variety of fruit and veg. Can this danger be true? Will my lovely stawbs be dangerous to eat?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
While, I think that they may be trying to cover themselves from a legal standpoint, I don't think that the berries are dangerous.
The calcium salt is, highly, soluble in water. Washing them, thoroughly, will be enough to rid them of any chemicals.
To clarify- the chemical is very dangerous. Inhalation and ingestion should be taken, seriously. However, it is incredibly water soluble. Wash them, very thoroughly, and discontinue at the firs sign of illness, should it occur.
