Your tree won’t always be able to get all the nutrients it needs from the soil. This is why fertilizing can oftentimes be a lifesaver.
Though you should always schedule professional tree services in McLean, VA, it’s quite easy to skip this part and just use fertilizer spikes instead. However, you need to be aware of the potential negative effects of using fertilizer spikes on trees.
For instance, can fertilizer spikes kill trees? Let’s find out.
Why Fertilizer Spikes Are Popular
If fertilizer spikes have a downside, why do homeowners use them? Here are a few reasons why fertilizer spikes are popular.
Convenience
Who doesn’t enjoy quick and easy? That’s what fertilizer spikes are. Just place them into the soil at your tree’s drip line and let them get to work.
Slow Nutrient Release
Since the spikes release their nutrients over time, they can facilitate steady tree growth without reapplication.
Less Runoff
Using fertilizer spikes also reduces the chances of runoff. This is because the spikes offer targeted release close to your tree’s roots.
The Dangers of Fertilizer Spikes for Tree Health
You’d never think that something designed to promote your tree’s long-term health would be the very thing to harm it. However, that’s often the case with fertilizer spikes.
Can fertilizer spikes kill trees? While not directly, using fertilizer spikes could damage your tree’s functioning and eventually lead to its death. Here’s how fertilizer spikes can harm trees.
Damages the Root System
At first, the spikes’ targeted release will seem like a benefit. However, targeted release only leads to uneven distribution. This means that a concentrated amount of nutrients will only reach a small portion of the tree’s roots.
When some sections develop more than others, it compromises the entire root system, impacting the tree’s health and stability.
Alters Soil Composition
It’s possible to buy spikes formulated to your tree’s specific needs. What many fail to consider is that the added nutrients could negatively impact what’s already in the soil. You could end up altering the soil composition, which might threaten the health of your tree and the surrounding landscape.
Leaves the Tree Vulnerable to Pests
We all know the level of destruction pests can cause to trees. The good news is that applying fertilizers and keeping your tree healthy is a great way to safeguard it. Unfortunately, fertilizer spikes do the opposite.
The spikes actually create an opportunity for pests to infest and destroy your tree’s roots, causing significant damage and, ultimately, tree death.
Learn About the Safe Alternatives to Tree Fertilizer Spikes
Can fertilizer spikes kill trees? Yes, using them could result in your tree’s early demise. This, however, doesn’t mean that your tree should go without fertilizer.
At The Heart of Wood, we offer solutions that promise to unlock your tree’s full potential. From creating a customized nourishment plan to guiding you through the advantages of organic fertilizers, you can trust our proven expertise.
Call us at (571) 482-0996 for more information.