Fertilization for coniferous trees

Fertilizing is usually done in autumn and it is a very important activity, but unfortunately many of us forget to do that. This is true for the majority of plants but also for coniferous trees, as it helps them to survive the winter and speeds up the growing season in the spring. Conifers that are properly fertilized in the fall are also more resistant to disease and pests. These are the obvious reasons why you should fertilize coniferous trees in autumn.

Autumn fertilization

Fertilization provides the necessary nutrients that all plants need for growth and development. The most important nutrients are potassium and phosphorus. Contrary to popular believe you should omit nitrogen in the autumn, because nitrogen supports creation of young shoots and you do not want young shoots in winter as they would not survive

• Potassium partakes in photosynthesis and helps activate about 50 different enzymes and plays an important role in regulation and distribution of water in plants and improves resistance to drought, strengthens frost resistance and speeds up wood processes.
• Phosphorus is needed because it supports proper development of roots and strengthens the regenerative abilities of meristems (tissue in roots and in tips of plants) and increases tolerance to various types of stresses, which makes the plant more resistant to bad weather and diseases.

Photo: Pixabay

When should you start fertilizing?

Well, the ideal time comes already in August and you should continue fertilizing until October. Only use fertilizers intended for autumn fertilization. Poorly chosen fertilizer can do more damage than not fertilizing at all . You may also choose a special fertilizer, which on top of adding nutrients, prevents coniferous tree needles from turning brown. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and observe the recommended dosage. The best time to fertilize is when the soil is still wet – after rain, because it will get absorbed better.

Compost

If you have compost, you may use it too. Compost improves the soil structure and enriches it with humus. You may also use compost as a mulch to protect plants from frosts and to retain moisture.

Source: https://www.ziemovit.pl/poradnik/nawozenie-iglakow-jesienia

Preview photo: Pixabay