Nutrient Depletion

Fertilization is used to enhance growth of pines, especially on poorer sites. Some have portrayed fertilization as a substitute to nutrient depletion on these sites. Most operations in the region remove only stem-wood, leaving tops and root systems on the site. This remaining debris contains most of the recyclable nutrients and will maintain nutrient baseline levels. Concern of nutrient depletion should only become a factor if a whole-tree harvest removal system is used.

On sites where nitrogen and phosphorus are limited, diammonium phosphate or DAP is
recommended. Fertilizers containing potassium and other trace nutrients can be applied as indicated by a soil test. Where needed, these nutrients can be applied cheaply in the form of potassium chloride or “potash.”

This is the end of the Fertilization section. Click on the next button to proceed to Thinning.