Fertilizing a conifer or a hedge should be done with a sense of proportion. Conifers are not only very sensitive to a lack of nutrients, but also do not tolerate over-fertilization. For this reason, a professional soil test should be carried out before reaching for the fertilizer.
Coniferous trees usually do not need to be fertilized
Before fertilization comes the soil sample
Sometimes the coniferous tree indicates that it is missing nutrients - often it is magnesium - by turning brown its needles. Just as often, however, there can be another reason behind it, which is why needle loss cannot always be stopped with the administration of Epsom salt or lime. However, a professional soil sample can at least provide clarity in this regard, and you will also receive a detailed fertilizer recommendation. You send such a soil sample to either state or private soil analysis agencies. The former are usually subordinate to the Chambers of Agriculture. If, on the other hand, you suspect that the soil is too acidic, a simple pH test from the pharmacy will help - and then, if the suspicion has been confirmed, fertilization with lime.
Fertilize conifers - Here's how
A wide variety of fertilizers are available for fertilizing coniferous trees. However, conifers in the garden only need fertilizer if the soil testing institute actually recommends it. Many garden soils today are over-fertilized rather than under-supplied, which is why fertilization is often not fully necessary for planted trees or hedges. You should only fertilize regularly with conifers in pots, because they cannot take care of themselves.
plant fertilization
As a rule, it is always a good idea to use so-called plant fertilization, in which you add mature compost and horn shavings (€32.93) or horn meal to the excavation. This start-up fertilization often improves soil that is too dense / too lean, loosens it and supports the plant in growing.
Special conifer fertilizers
So-called conifer or fir fertilizer has proven itself in the care of both planted and potted conifers. The commercially available agent is tailored precisely to the needs of coniferous trees and can of course also be used for hedges. However, you should only fertilize between March and the end of July so that young shoots can mature in time before winter. On the other hand, if you fertilize for too long, the trees keep growing new shoots that freeze back in winter.
Epsom salt
This is a special magnesium fertilizer that may only be administered if there is a proven deficiency. Yellow or brown needles rarely indicate a magnesium deficiency - as a result of an overdose, potassium deficiency often occurs, which in turn also causes brown needles.
tips
Liquid fertilizers, which are administered with the irrigation water, are particularly suitable for potted plants. This way you can get to the roots quickly.