At some point, your trees will need fertilizers if they are to sustain their healthy growth. When this time comes, some tree owners might choose to schedule professional tree services in Great Falls, VA. Others, however, might opt for fertilizer spikes.
Though these have their perks, they do come with certain downsides as well. Can fertilizer spikes kill trees? Read on as we explore the potential dangers.
Why Fertilizer Spikes Are So Popular
With everything you have on your plate, it’s normal to seek out products that will simplify tree care. An example of such products is fertilizer spikes. All you need to do is install them at your tree’s drip line and let them gradually release nutrients into the soil, providing your tree with a steady supply of nutrients.
On top of their convenience and slow release, fertilizer spikes also minimize runoff. This is because the spikes release the nutrients directly into the soil, close to your tree’s roots.
Unfortunately, despite their advantages, they create several risks.
Potential Fertilizer Spike Damage
Using fertilizer spikes often seems like a good idea. However, doing so could end up causing more harm to your tree.
Can fertilizer spikes kill trees? In a way, they can. While the spikes won’t do so directly, the improper fertilization effects they cause could be detrimental to your tree’s health and, in extreme cases, threaten its longevity.
Here’s the harm you risk causing your tree by using fertilizer spikes.
Root Damage
Fertilizer spikes distribute nutrients unevenly. What this means is that tiny concentrated amounts of nutrients will reach a small section of your tree’s root system, which could cause damage.
Unbalanced Growth
This is another downside that could result from the spikes’ uneven nutrient distribution. If your tree’s roots manage to go unscathed, they may still experience unbalanced growth.
Nutrient Burn
Seeing how uneven the distribution is might tempt you to use more spikes. However, doing so will only lead to nutrient burn, which would harm the roots and hinder their ability to properly absorb water and nutrients.
Altered Soil Composition
Fertilizer spikes can also change the health and composition of the soil. When this happens, it can put the health of your trees at great risk.
Increased Insect Damage
Did you know that fertilizer spikes create the perfect opportunity for pests and insects to invade your tree? The damage and diseases these pests bring often outweigh any benefits you are likely to get from using these spikes.
Ensure Proper Tree Fertilization in Great Falls, VA
Tree health and fertilization go hand in hand. Get it wrong, and you could do more harm than good. Nail it, and your tree will thrive.
Can fertilizer spikes kill trees? What are the benefits of organic fertilizers? Let us help you unlock your tree’s full potential by not only answering your questions but also providing expert fertilization services.
Call The Heart of Wood today at (571) 482-0996 to get started with an expert assessment.