Should fertilizer be applied during dormant or non-growing seasons?

Should fertilizer be applied during dormant or non-growing seasons?

• A. No
• B. Only in certain climates
• C. Yes
• D. Only if using slow-release

Answer: (A)

During dormancy, plants aren’t actively growing, so their roots aren’t taking up nutrients. Fertilizer applied now doesn’t promote new growth and can actually cause problems—salt buildup in the soil can damage roots, and any nutrients present may leach away or remain unused until growth resumes. Since the purpose of fertilization is to support active growth, withholding fertilizer during the dormant or non-growing season is the best practice. In some climates, a light, late-winter application of fertilizer may be considered once growth is about to begin, but not during true dormancy.

During dormancy, plants aren’t actively growing, so their roots aren’t taking up nutrients. Fertilizer applied now doesn’t promote new growth and can actually cause problems—salt buildup in the soil can damage roots, and any nutrients present may leach away or remain unused until growth resumes. Since the purpose of fertilization is to support active growth, withholding fertilizer during the dormant or non-growing season is the best practice. In some climates, a light, late-winter application of fertilizer may be considered once growth is about to begin, but not during true dormancy.