Granular Diammonium Phosphate |
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Using a Palm Tree Fertilizer
Growing a palm tree can be a difficult but very rewarding undertaking. If you are fortunate enough to live in an area that has the necessary climate, you may like to give it a try. Just dont attempt to use any old fertilizer, however. You will need a specific palm tree fertilizer.
The Ingredients
Palm trees need nitrogen plus manganese, magnesium potassium and iron. All fertilizers contain nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Their ratios in the fertilizer are displayed on the bag in the NPK number in the order above. Make sure that you know the needs of the specific type of palm tree that you have and find the right mix in your palm tree fertilizer.
If a palm tree does not receive enough manganese, it will develop yellowing and necrosis in its new leaves. As the problem progresses, it becomes hard to miss as the tree will have little new growth and the leaves that do survive will wither. Manganese deficiency can be fatal to the tree.
Potassium deficiency, on the other hand affects the old leaves first leaving them with a brown or orange color. Increasing potassium alone can cause manganese deficiency. Both should be added together. Older leaves are also affected by magnesium deficiency. They become yellowed at the tips only.
All of these problems can be avoided by using a good palm tree fertilizer from the beginning. If a deficiency has already occurred, supplements can be added to bring your palm back to good health.
Good Practices
An NPK number of 3-1-3 or 15-5-15 is considered the best for palm tree fertilizer. Earlier opinions advocated a ratio of 3-1-2, but new studies show that more potassium is needed. Besides the three main ingredients, a good palm tree fertilizer should include supplemental magnesium and calcium. Look for a palm tree fertilizer with ample microelements to keep your tree healthy.
Because of the tubular histology of a palm tree, the fertilizer should be distributed evenly all around the root area. The palm tree fertilizer should ideally be worked into the soil. Only fertilize when the soil is damp and water the area after; never apply palm tree fertilizer to dry soil since it can cause burning and damage the tree.
Always read the directions on the palm tree fertilizer bag before using it and when you find a system that works for you, stick to it. |