18.07.2014 Views

western-queensland-gardening-guide.pdf - South West NRM

western-queensland-gardening-guide.pdf - South West NRM

western-queensland-gardening-guide.pdf - South West NRM

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

Fertilising native trees<br />

Most native plants will grow adequately if planted on a suitable site but early<br />

growth rates can be increased by the addition of an appropriate type and amount of<br />

fertiliser. The fertiliser enriches the soil and ensures that plants have the necessary<br />

supply of nutrients. As well as the major nutrients-nitrogen, phosphorus,<br />

potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulphur - trees also require trace elements such<br />

as iron, copper and zinc. The type and quantity of fertiliser used depends on soil<br />

types and conditions, and the species being planted.<br />

Good results from fertilising will only be obtained when weeds and grass around<br />

trees are thoroughly controlled.<br />

Placement of fertiliser<br />

Seedlings and young trees<br />

Fertilisers can be spread in a ring around the tree if the area is relatively Eat, but<br />

should otherwise go in a band on the uphill side of the tree. An alternative method is<br />

to dig one or two small holes 10 cm to 20 cm deep near the tree, place the fertiliser in<br />

the hole and refill with soil. Fertiliser should be 20 cm to 50 cm away from the base<br />

of the tree (See Figure 16).<br />

Figure A 6. Placement of fertiliser<br />

Figure 17. Availability of nutrients

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!