Abstract: A method of manufacturing a water soluble composition adapted for subsequent solubilizing and application to agricultural crops is disclosed in which a divalent metal salt, citric acid and sodium citrate are mixed to form a mixture having a moisture content of from approximately 10% to 1.25% percent by weight. The mixture is then processed in a drying environment to produce a product which is partially chelated and has a moisture content which is less than the moisture content of the mixture prior to processing. The preferred drying environment is from 120.degree. F., to 150.degree. F. Most preferably, the processing step is performed in a continuous flow, fluidized bed dryer at from approximately 120.degree. F. to 150.degree. F. for from approximately 50 seconds to approximately 70 seconds. Preferred divalent metals are iron, copper, zinc and manganese.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a water soluble composition adapted for subsequent solubilizing and application to agricultural crops is disclosed in which a divalent metal salt, citric acid and sodium citrate are mixed to form a mixture having a moisture content of from approximately 10% to 1.25% percent by weight. The mixture is then processed in a drying environment to produce a product which is partially chelated and has a moisture content which is less than the moisture content of the mixture prior to processing. The preferred drying environment is from 120.degree. F. to 150.degree. F. Most preferably, the processing step is performed in a continuous flow, fluidized bed dryer at from approximately 120.degree. F. to 150.degree. F. for from approximately 50 seconds to approximately 70 seconds. Preferred divalent metals are iron, copper, zinc and manganese.