If you care for your maple tree, the sword of Damocles of a fungal infection is constantly hanging over the tree. Nutrient supply is no exception in this regard. Fertilizing your magnificent house tree correctly depends not only on the nutrient composition, but also on the professional approach. This guide answers all questions.
How should you properly fertilize a maple tree?
Maple trees benefit from organic fertilizers such as compost, horn shavings and plant manure. Fertilize in autumn and spring, ensure gentle application and water before and after fertilizing. Liquid fertilizer is suitable in the pot from March to September.
When is the best time to fertilize?
The nature of the fertilizer largely determines the right time for application. Organic fertilizer is processed in advance by soil organisms so that it is available to plants. Mineral and mineral-organic fertilizers work immediately due to their chemical components. The following overview lists the best fertilization dates:
- Organic fertilizer (compost, plant manure): in autumn and again in spring
- Mineral or mineral-organic fertilizer: depending on the duration of action, once in spring or every 4-6 weeks
For practical reasons, liquid fertilizer is perfect for maple in pots. The time of application extends from March/April to August/September.
Which fertilizers are recommended?
Nitrogen plays a secondary role in the balanced nutrient supply of maple trees. Native species in particular are fast-growing, so the additional administration of nitrogen causes fattening cell growth and increases susceptibility to diseases. Therefore, give preference to organic fertilizers (€27.00 on Amazon), such as compost, horn shavings and plant manure. A maple tree should be spared from the concentrated nitrogen load of mineral fertilizers, such as blue grain.
What should you pay particular attention to when fertilizing?
Fertilizers are administered to the maple tree exactly where pathogens lurk on injuries as a portal of entry. Gentle administration of fertilizers is therefore just as important as quality. How to do it right:
- Always apply fertilizers superficially and carefully without damaging the roots
- Do not use fertilizer on extremely dry soil, but water in advance
- Pour plenty of clean water
You should ideally administer starter fertilization as part of planting by enriching the excavation of the planting pit by a third with ripe compost and horn shavings.
Tip
Don't clear away the fall leaves from under your maple tree. As a result of rapid decomposition, the leaves turn into rich humus, which benefits growth. Only maple leaves with fungal infestation should be completely removed and disposed of in the trash.
