Mountain Gardener with Ken & Lisa

Does Feeding with Plant Spikes Really Work

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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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    Mountain Gardener with Ken & LisaBy Ken Lain