How does sodium tetraborate pentahydrate compare with other borates for agricultural boron fertilizer use?

How does sodium tetraborate pentahydrate compare with other borates for agricultural boron fertilizer use?
In agriculture, sodium tetraborate pentahydrate is a cost-effective boron source, but it has notable drawbacks. Its solubility in cold water is poor, which limits effectiveness in foliar sprays and fertigation. The sodium content can also accumulate in soil over repeated applications, potentially affecting crop quality and yield. For soil application as a base fertilizer, the pentahydrate remains popular due to its low price, with recommended rates around 1 kg per mu. However, for higher efficiency, boron fertilizers like boric acid (17% B) or disodium octaborate tetrahydrate (21% B) offer better solubility and no sodium, though at a higher cost. Farmers often use these for topdressing or foliar feeding.