March 9, 2002
Question: Last week you recommended the use of a 6-6-6 citrus fertilizer for
fertilizing citrus trees. A friend of mine purchased a 6-6-6 fertilizer but
there is no indicate on the bag that it is a citrus fertilizer. Is there a
difference?
- Helen Novella, North Fort Myers
Answer: Yes, there is a difference. Not all fertilizers are blended equally.
There are several types of 6-6-6 fertilizers just as there are several types of
16-4-8 fertilizers. Fertilizers blended for citrus applications will indicate so
on the label. They contain micronutrients that citrus trees need for best
growth. If a 6-6-6 citrus fertilizer is not available, purchase another analysis
recommended for citrus application.
Stephen Brown is a horticulture agent with the Lee County Extension. To submit questions call the horticulture desk at 461-7504 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. or via e-mail at
shb@gnv.ifas.ufl.edu. Listen to the ‘Garden Show’ at 8 a.m. on 1200-AM WINK/WNOG.