Cronk Nutrients Growers Knowledge Hub logo
Cronk Nutrients Growers Knowledge Hub logo

All articles

Cronk PuurBalance 2-0-0: Complete Guide to Organic Amino Acids and MicronutrientsUpdated 7 days ago

PuurBalance 2-0-0: Organic Amino Acids and Micronutrients for Complete Plant Nutrition

PuurBalance 2-0-0: OMRI-certified organic formula with 21 L-amino acids and chelated micronutrients for enhanced nutrient uptake.

PuurBalance 2-0-0 is an OMRI-certified organic supplement containing 21 plant-based L-amino acids and a complete spectrum of chelated micronutrients. It improves nutrient uptake efficiency, corrects trace mineral deficiencies, and provides the building blocks plants need for protein synthesis—essential components often missing from organic feeding programs.

The Science Behind PuurBalance

Why Amino Acids Matter

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Every enzyme, structural protein, and transport molecule in plants is built from amino acids. While plants can synthesize amino acids from nitrogen, this process requires:

  • Significant ATP energy expenditure
  • Active enzyme systems that may be limited during stress
  • Carbon skeletons from photosynthesis
  • Time that could be spent on growth and flowering

Providing pre-formed L-amino acids allows plants to:

  • Conserve energy – Skip the energy-intensive synthesis process
  • Accelerate protein production – Build enzymes and structures faster
  • Improve stress recovery – Maintain protein synthesis when internal resources are limited
  • Enhance nutrient transport – Amino acids serve as natural chelating agents

The 21 L-Amino Acids in PuurBalance

PuurBalance provides all 21 standard amino acids in their biologically active L-form:

Amino AcidFunction in Plants
GlycineChlorophyll synthesis, chelation
Glutamic AcidNitrogen transport, chlorophyll
ProlineStress tolerance, cell wall strength
AlanineEnergy metabolism, nitrogen storage
LeucineProtein synthesis regulation
ValineGrowth regulation, stress response
IsoleucineProtein synthesis, immunity
SerinePhospholipid synthesis, signaling
ThreonineCell wall synthesis, immunity
MethionineEthylene precursor, stress tolerance
PhenylalaninePhenolic compounds, lignin
TyrosineSecondary metabolites, hormones
TryptophanAuxin (growth hormone) precursor
HistidineMetal binding, catalysis
LysineProtein structure, immunity
ArginineNitrogen storage, root development
Aspartic AcidNitrogen transport, energy
AsparagineNitrogen storage and transport
GlutamineNitrogen assimilation, transport
CysteineSulfur metabolism, antioxidants
HydroxyprolineCell wall structure

Micronutrients in PuurBalance

PuurBalance delivers essential micronutrients in amino acid-chelated forms:

Iron (Fe)

  • Central component of chlorophyll synthesis
  • Essential for electron transport in photosynthesis
  • Required for nitrogen fixation enzymes

Zinc (Zn)

  • Activates over 300 enzymes
  • Essential for auxin (growth hormone) production
  • Required for protein synthesis

Manganese (Mn)

  • Critical for photosystem II (water-splitting)
  • Activates enzymes in nitrogen metabolism
  • Required for lignin synthesis

Copper (Cu)

  • Essential for photosynthesis and respiration
  • Required for lignin synthesis (stem strength)
  • Activates several oxidase enzymes

Boron (B)

  • Critical for cell wall formation
  • Required for pollen development and fruit set
  • Supports sugar transport

Molybdenum (Mo)

  • Essential for nitrate reductase enzyme
  • Required for nitrogen metabolism
  • Needed in only trace amounts

Amino Acid Chelation Explained

Traditional mineral fertilizers use inorganic salts (sulfates, chlorides, EDTA) that can:

  • Precipitate with phosphates at certain pH levels
  • Become unavailable in alkaline conditions
  • Compete for absorption sites

Amino acid chelates overcome these limitations:

  • Stability – Amino acids wrap around metal ions, protecting them from precipitation
  • Recognition – Plants have evolved specific transporters for amino acids
  • Efficiency – Chelated minerals enter plants along with their amino acid carriers
  • pH tolerance – Remain available across wider pH ranges than inorganic forms

Application Rates

Root Application

Growth StageRate (mL/gallon)Frequency
Seedling/Clone1-2 mLEvery feeding
Vegetative2-3 mLEvery feeding
Flowering2-3 mLEvery feeding
Stress Recovery3-4 mLUntil recovery

Foliar Application

  • Rate: 2-3 mL per gallon
  • Timing: Early morning or evening (avoid hot sun)
  • Frequency: Weekly or as needed for deficiency correction
  • Coverage: Mist both sides of leaves until runoff

Mixing Instructions

Mixing Order in PuurOrganics System

  1. Start with water at room temperature
  2. Add Armadillo Armour (if using silica—always first)
  3. Add PuurNitro
  4. Add PuurPhos
  5. Add PuurK
  6. Add PuurCalMag
  7. Add PuurBalance (amino acids help chelate all nutrients)
  8. Add Sticky Bandit (if using)
  9. Check and adjust pH
  10. Add Monkey Juice (if using—always last, after pH)

Plants and Growing Systems

All Plants Benefit

Every plant requires amino acids and micronutrients. PuurBalance is beneficial for:

  • Cannabis and hemp
  • Vegetables and fruits
  • Herbs and flowers
  • Trees and shrubs
  • Houseplants

Growing System Compatibility

  • Soil: Excellent. Amino acids also feed beneficial microbes
  • Coco coir: Excellent. Provides micronutrients coco doesn't supply
  • Hydroponics: Excellent. Fully soluble, no sediment
  • Living soil: Excellent. Supports soil food web

Compatibility

Compatible Products

  • All PuurOrganics products (PuurNitro, PuurPhos, PuurK, PuurCalMag)
  • Cronk additives: Sticky Bandit, Monkey Juice, Bud Booster, Armadillo Armour
  • Compost teas and microbial inoculants
  • Organic pest and disease management products

NOT Compatible

  • Cronk Classic Line (Micro, Grow, Bloom)
  • Cronk Bonnie & Clyde
  • Other synthetic base nutrients

Signs of Micronutrient Deficiencies

Iron Deficiency

Interveinal chlorosis on NEW leaves (unlike magnesium which affects old leaves). Leaves may turn nearly white in severe cases.

Zinc Deficiency

Small, narrow leaves with interveinal chlorosis. "Little leaf" appearance. Shortened internodes.

Manganese Deficiency

Similar to iron deficiency but less severe. Interveinal chlorosis with tan/gray spots between veins.

Copper Deficiency

Wilting of new growth despite adequate water. Light green to yellow new leaves. Weak stems.

Boron Deficiency

Distorted, hollow stems. Poor flower and fruit development. Death of growing tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are L-amino acids and why do plants need them?

L-amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. While plants can synthesize amino acids from nitrogen, this process requires significant energy. Providing pre-formed L-amino acids allows plants to build proteins directly, conserving energy for growth and flower production. The "L" designation indicates the biologically active form that plants can use immediately.

How does amino acid chelation improve micronutrient absorption?

Amino acids wrap around metal ions (iron, zinc, copper, etc.) creating organic complexes that plants recognize and absorb more efficiently than inorganic mineral salts. Amino acid chelates also remain stable across wider pH ranges and don't precipitate with phosphates like unchelated minerals do.

Can I use PuurBalance as a foliar spray?

Yes. PuurBalance is excellent for foliar application at 2-3 mL/gallon. Amino acids are absorbed directly through leaf surfaces, providing rapid uptake of both amino acids and chelated micronutrients. Spray in early morning or evening to avoid leaf burn.

Why is PuurBalance important in organic growing?

Organic growing systems often lack the complete micronutrient spectrum that synthetic fertilizers provide. PuurBalance fills this gap with OMRI-certified micronutrients in amino acid-chelated forms. It also provides the amino acids that support beneficial soil microbes, creating a healthier root zone ecosystem.

Storage and Handling

  • Store in cool, dark location
  • Keep bottle sealed when not in use
  • Shelf life: 2 years unopened, 1 year after opening
  • Shake well before each use
  • OMRI Listed for certified organic production

Need Help?

Our grow support team is here to help you get the best results with PuurBalance and the complete PuurOrganics system. Contact us at [email protected] or visit our Grower's Resource Center for feed charts and growing guides.

Was this article helpful?
Yes
No