How to Use Fertilizer Spikes

Fertilizer spikes are a convenient way to provide nutrients to trees. They are designed to work on a time-release concept, releasing fertilizer to the roots of a tree slowly. Depending on the brand and type, fertilizer spikes contain varying proportions of tree nutrients. Fertilizer spikes enable you to deliver species-specific nutrients to individual trees and shrubs. You can find fertilizer spikes for different varieties of trees at home improvement centers, nurseries and large discount stores.

Hammer

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase the type of fertilizer spikes for the tree or large shrub you want to fertilize. Get enough spikes for the size of tree you have. The label lists the species that the fertilizer is designed for and how many you need.
- 2
  Water the ground around the tree to be fertilized, or wait until just after a rainfall when the ground is soft.
- 3
  Place one fertilizer spike just inside the drip line of the tree, or just inside the perimeter of the branch overhang. Do not place the spike closer than two feet from the trunk of the tree.
- 4
  Cover the flat end of the spike with the plastic cap provided in the package. Hold the spike with one hand at a 45-degree angle to the ground with the pointed end down. Strike the spike with a hammer to drive it into the soil. When the flat end of the spike is level with the ground, remove the plastic cap and strike it a few more times until it is about 2 inches below ground level.
- 5
  Drive the other fertilizer spikes into the ground around the circumference of the tree's drip line. Space them according to the package directions, which is usually every two or three feet.

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