Harnett County Center
Plant Talk |
by Paul G. McKenzie
From the Daily Record, Dunn,
NC
CAUTION:The information and recommendations in this article are applicable to Harnett County, NC and may not apply in other areas.
TOP 10 PLANT MYTHS, 11/07/97
Most of us are bombarded by information. And when we need information on a specific subject, it can be difficult to determine the most reliable source. So here are ten common misconceptions about gardening, plus the information you need to make an informed decision.
10-10-10 IS GOOD FOR EVERYTHING
The fertilizer you need depends on what your soil lacks. For example, many North Carolina soils already have plenty of phosphorous, which is why many soil test reports recommend 15-0- 14. Slow release fertilizers can also be beneficial as they release nitrogen to the plant over an extended period of time.
MORE FERTILIZER IS BETTER
Applying more than the plant needs is at best wasteful, and at worst harmful. Plants can also be damaged by applying fertilizer at the wrong time. Most trees, shrubs, and bulbs, for example, should be fertilized in early spring, just as they are beginning their spring growth.
MORE PESTICIDE IS BETTER
Pesticides undergo millions of dollars worth of testing to determine the correct and safe amount. Applying more is a waste of money and potentially harmful. If it didn't work, it was either the wrong pesticide, or applied incorrectly. I can have plant samples analyzed for you to determine the specific problem and the best solution.
PESTICIDES SOLVE ALL PROBLEMS
Pesticides are important tools. However, many plant problems can be solved by adjusting the pH, applying a missing nutrient, or planting in a different spot (rotation). It is important to identify the problem before deciding on a solution.
I READ IT, SO IT MUST BE TRUE
If it sounds too good to be true, be skeptical. Just because a plant looks great in a picture does not mean it will do well in our area. My job as an Extension Agent is to provide unbiased, research based information, so give me a call if you have questions.
SOME PLANTS ARE MAINTENANCE FREE
Some plants require more maintenance than others, but all require a little TLC from time to time. This could be nothing more than an occasional inspection. Become a plant detective. I like to take a daily stroll around my yard, peering under leaves and examining critters (I also like to stop and smell the roses). Problems are easier to solve when they are identified early.
TREES HAVE DEEP TAPROOTS
Most trees do not have taproots. Even those that do have taproots depend on surface roots to take up nutrients and water.
TREE ROOTS EXTEND A FEW FEET BEYOND THE TRUNK
Surface roots can extend well beyond the "drip line" or shade zone of the tree. Damage to these roots is very harmful to a tree. Try to avoid any soil disturbance or heavy traffic in this area. The problem may not show up until years later.
I NEED TO PLANT A DIFFERENT KIND OF GRASS
If your grass is not growing well, you may not be managing it correctly. Each type of grass must be mowed at the correct height and fertilized at the right time.
MY YARD NEEDS LOTS OF TOPSOIL
Some yards do benefit from adding topsoil, particularly a new homesite where construction activity has removed existing topsoil. However, your problem may be solved by adding the correct fertilizer. Soils can also be improved by adding organic matter such as compost, fully decomposed leaves, or aged manure.
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