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Fertilizer is an essential component of gardening, providing plants with the necessary nutrients for growth and healthy development. However, over-fertilization or improper application of fertilizer can lead to harm in your garden. Here are some ways in which fertilizer can harm your garden and how to avoid it.
Over-fertilization:
Applying too much fertilizer to your garden can lead to over-fertilization. This can cause rapid growth and lush foliage, but it can also lead to weak, spindly stems, and an increased susceptibility to disease and pests. Over-fertilization can also lead to an imbalance of nutrients in the soil, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies in plants and a decrease in the overall health of your garden.
To avoid over-fertilization, always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, and use a soil test to determine the specific needs of your garden.
Leaching into water sources:
Fertilizer that is not properly absorbed by plants can run off into nearby water sources, such as streams, rivers, and lakes. This can lead to an excess of nutrients in the water, which can cause an overgrowth of algae and aquatic plants, leading to a decrease in the oxygen levels and harm to aquatic life.
To avoid leaching into water sources, it’s important to apply fertilizer at the right time and in the right amount, and also to choose a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for your type of plants. Also, it’s important to avoid applying fertilizer before a heavy rain or irrigation to prevent it from running off.
Burning plants:
Fertilizer can burn plants if it comes into direct contact with the foliage or stem. This can happen if fertilizer is applied too heavily or if it’s applied to dry soil. Burned plants will have brown or yellowed leaves, and may die if the damage is severe.
To avoid fertilizer burn, make sure to apply fertilizer to moist soil and be careful not to get fertilizer on the foliage or stem of the plants. Also, use a fertilizer spreader to ensure an even application of fertilizer.
In summary, while fertilizer is an essential component of gardening, over-fertilization or improper application of fertilizer can lead to harm in your garden. Over-fertilization can cause weak, spindly stems and an increased susceptibility to disease and pests. Leaching into water sources can lead to an excess of nutrients in the water, which can harm aquatic life. Fertilizer burn can happen if it’s applied too heavily or to dry soil. To avoid these harms, always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, use a soil test to determine the specific needs of your garden.
If you have questions about fertilizer please call or text us at Lawn Buddies at 732-475-5500 and one of our team members will assist you!