Opinions on using a slow release fertilizer

[oneeye]

The only time I used slow-release fertilizer was on lawns in the Spring. The problem with using slow release in containers is the lack of control of the EC. It's a good way to over or under-fertilize plants in containers. So it's a guessing game unless you have a TDS meter and measure the ppm of the leachate of the discharge after watering. If the EC is too high you're screwed because slow-release won't flush out easily from the container. Container plants don't need a lot of fertilizer and most people use too much thinking more is better. I don't recommend using slow release in container plants unless they are outdoors. Good luck and keep us posted.

 

[cpp gardener]

You just need to follow the directions on the package. Unless your potting soil already has an added fertilizer, in which case it’s obviously not needed, if you don‘t use more than the package indicates you won’t have a problem.

 

[oneeye]

It's not all bad and please don't misunderstand me. If you are making your potting mix and need a fertilizer amendment. Time release is used in the manufacture of potting mixes. That's how the plants can stay on the marketing shelf longer. Time release has its place in the horticulture business. Like cpp says if you use as directed you shouldn't have any problems. Greenhouses have measurement tools to monitor the EC and learn just how much to use.

 

[dcroswby]

I doubt they harassed you...I know I would not.

They probably were just being insistent that the information from soil test is invaluable...and is absolutely critical to anyone attempting to offer you assistance on a garden/soil problem.

So, speaking of soil tests...it might be fun to discuss your results or not entirely up to you...but some members here have decades of experience reading those.

re: Harassed about soil test. Nope, I was definitely harassed and made to feel bad about not having the testing down. The folks on another forum take these numbers VERY seriously and when I had a soil or fertilizer question I was aggressively told that nothing could be done...so i did

Id be happy to discuss the results with you. I can scan and post them but to be perfectly honest I ended up with the saddest garden, last summer, ever.
I was super low on Potasssium (K). Ok on the other majors. Low in calcium and on the fence with acidity/alkaline.
I tried to adjust my applications and things didn't work for me. Its embarrassing but true
The ONCE numbers do fit my particular needs and that's why I'm thinking of it. 15-9-12.

Wish I could be more enthusiastic. Glad to attach results if anyone's interested

.

 

[Meadowlark]

Post 'em up. Something can always be done.

 

[dcroswby]

Post 'em up. Something can always be done.

Sorry ive been AWOL Been super sick with the flu. Very bad timing as mid February comes I need all my garden ducks in a row. Cold weather vegies etc.
I will definitely will post my aggie reports. They did come with some advice but most of the work arounds are way out of my pay grade, so to speak. Others are numbers and values that I don't know how to interpret..
While waiting for my dh to scan my reports...does anyone have a go to bulb/tuber site to use? This is my first time with Dahlia tubers. There's plenty of info out there but id like to find a good one stop shop to guide web site that can guide me through the starting, transplanting, growing and caring for process.
Thanks All!!

 

[oneeye]

Sorry ive been AWOL Been super sick with the flu. Very bad timing as mid February comes I need all my garden ducks in a row. Cold weather vegies etc.
I will definitely will post my aggie reports. They did come with some advice but most of the work arounds are way out of my pay grade, so to speak. Others are numbers and values that I don't know how to interpret..
While waiting for my dh to scan my reports...does anyone have a go to bulb/tuber site to use? This is my first time with Dahlia tubers. There's plenty of info out there but id like to find a good one stop shop to guide web site that can guide me through the starting, transplanting, growing and caring for process.
Thanks All!!

I'm not sure what type bulb/tuber site you are asking about.

 

[dcroswby]

just a site where I can find growing information on growing bulbs.
stupid question. There are plenty of bulb growing sites. I just thought someone might have a favorite.