Does Feeding with Plant Spikes Really Work

Plant Spikes: Myth Busted! Ken Lain, the Mountain Gardener, Weighs In!

Hey, Botanical Buddies! Ken Lain, the Mountain Gardener, here with some down-to-earth wisdom on those trendy plant spikes. You know, the ones promising lush growth and vibrant blooms with just a single push into your soil? Do they really work? Let's dig in and find out!

Plant spikes work by slowly releasing nutrients into the soil over time. This can be a convenient way to fertilize, especially for forgetful gardeners like yours truly. However, it's not a magic bullet, and there are some things to consider:

Pros:

• Convenience: No more measuring and mixing fertilizers!
• Controlled release: Nutrients are released gradually, minimizing the risk of burning your plants.
• Longevity: Some spikes last for months, saving you time and effort.

Cons:

• Cost: Spikes can be more expensive than traditional fertilizers.
• Limited control: You can't adjust the amount or type of nutrients being released.
• Not for all plants: Some plants have specific nutrient needs that may not be met by spikes.
• Myth of one spike does it all: While it stays in the ground for a year, it often doesn't release enough nutrients for a larger tree. You'd need a dozen or more spikes to fertilize a bigger tree properly..

So, what should you do instead?

I recommend organic fertilizers! Our 744 All-Purpose Plant Food is a great option. It's made with cottonseed meal, bird guano, and other natural ingredients that release nutrients slowly over time, just like plants prefer. We also add a boost of iron and sulfur for optimal growth.

Here are some additional tips for fertilizing your evergreen trees:

• Fertilize in early winter. This will give the trees time to absorb the nutrients before the spring growth spurt.
• Spread the fertilizer around the dripline of the tree. This is the area where the majority of the feeder roots are located.
• Water the fertilizer in well (or apply it just before a storm). This will help it move down into the soil where the roots can reach it.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your evergreen trees get the nutrients they need to stay healthy and thrive.

 

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