Wicked Growth 0-12-0 Fertilizer Guide

Recommended Application Rates for 0-12-0 Fertilizer

The 0-12-0 fertilizer, often triple superphosphate or bone meal, is high in phosphorus (12%), promoting root development, flowering, and fruiting in phosphorus-deficient soils. It’s ideal for vegetables, flowers, and trees where nitrogen and potassium are sufficient.

Per Square Foot

• General Use (e.g., Gardens, Beds): Apply 1–1.5 teaspoons per square foot (equivalent to 0.5–0.75 pounds per 100 square feet).

• Method: Spread evenly, incorporate into the top 2–3 inches of soil, and water thoroughly.

Per Plant

• Small Plants (e.g., Annuals, Vegetables): Use 1 teaspoon around the base, 2–3 inches from the stem.

• Medium Plants (e.g., Small Shrubs, Tomatoes): Apply 1–2 tablespoons per plant.

• Large Plants (e.g., Trees, Large Shrubs): Use 1/4–1/2 cup around the drip line, based on size.

• Method: Distribute evenly, lightly work into soil, and water well.

Per Gallon of Water

• Liquid Application: Dissolve 1 tablespoon per gallon of water for soil drenching.

• Method: Apply to soil, ensuring full dissolution. Use sparingly, every 4–6 weeks.

Application Tips

• Soil Testing: Test soil to confirm phosphorus deficiency.

• Timing: Apply at planting or early spring for best results.

• Safety: Wear gloves/mask; follow label instructions.

Application Frequency of 0-12-0 Fertilizer

Apply 0-12-0 fertilizer once or twice per growing season, based on soil tests and plant needs:

• Initial Application: At planting or early spring to support root growth.

• Mid-Season (if needed): For phosphorus-intensive crops (e.g., tomatoes, peppers) at bud set.

• Avoid Overuse: Excess phosphorus can cause nutrient imbalances or runoff.

Note: Adjust frequency based on soil test results.

Application Rate Differences for Established Plants and Seedlings

Yes, rates differ due to sensitivity:

• Seedlings: Use 1/4–1/2 teaspoon per plant or a diluted solution (0.5 tablespoon per gallon of water) to avoid burn.

• Established Plants: Apply full rates (1 teaspoon–1/2 cup per plant or 1–1.5 teaspoons per square foot) to support flowering/fruiting.

Note: Soil test to tailor rates and prevent over-fertilization.

Best Time of Year or Season to Apply 0-12-0 Fertilizer

• Early Spring: Before planting to support root development for vegetables, flowers, or perennials.

• Fall: For perennials or bulbs to strengthen roots before winter.

• Flowering/Fruiting Stages: Apply at bud set for phosphorus-demanding crops.

Note: Avoid overuse; confirm need with soil tests.

Application Timing Relative to Planting Stages

• Before Planting: Incorporate 1–1.5 teaspoons per square foot into soil 2–3 weeks prior.

• At Planting: Apply 1/4–1/2 teaspoon per seedling or 1–2 tablespoons per transplant, avoiding direct root contact.

• During Active Growth: Use sparingly at bud set if deficiency persists.

Note: Phosphorus is immobile; incorporate into root zone for best results.

Timing Around Flowering, Fruiting, or Dormancy Stages

• Flowering Stage: Apply at bud formation to enhance bloom quality with phosphorus (12%).

• Fruiting Stage: Use early in fruiting to support fruit development.

• Dormancy Stage: Apply before dormancy for perennials; avoid during full dormancy to prevent runoff.

Note: Time applications for flowering/fruiting stages.

Timing Around Rain or Irrigation

• Before Light Rain/Irrigation: Apply before moderate rain or irrigation to aid nutrient absorption.

• Avoid Heavy Rain: Prevent runoff by avoiding application before heavy rain.

• Moist Soil: Apply to moist soil, followed by light watering if needed.

Note: Check weather to optimize uptake and reduce runoff.

Application Methods for 0-12-0 Fertilizer

• Soil Incorporation: Mix 1–1.5 teaspoons per square foot into soil before planting (most effective).

• Side-Dressing: Apply 1–2 teaspoons along rows or around plants during growth.

• Topdressing: Use 1–1.5 teaspoons per square foot; water in to move nutrients to roots.

• Foliar Spray: Not recommended; phosphorus is poorly absorbed through leaves.

Note: Incorporate or side-dress for best phosphorus uptake.

Watering After Application

Yes, water in 0-12-0 fertilizer to:

• Dissolve granules for root uptake.

• Prevent burn by washing off foliage.

• Ensure even nutrient distribution.

• Reduce runoff risk.

Note: Follow label watering instructions.

Mixing 0-12-0 Fertilizer with Other Products

Yes, it can be mixed with compatible fertilizers/amendments:

• Soil Test: Confirm phosphorus needs; supplement nitrogen/potassium if deficient.

• Compatibility: Avoid mixing with high-calcium products to prevent insoluble compounds.

• Mixing: Blend thoroughly for uniform application.

• Organic Amendments: Pair with compost/manure for soil health.

• Safety: Wear gloves; test mixtures on a small area.

Note: Monitor plant response to avoid imbalances.

Suitability for Drip Irrigation or Fertigation Systems

Yes, if water-soluble (e.g., monoammonium phosphate):

• Solubility: Ensure complete dissolution (1 tablespoon per gallon) to avoid clogging.

• Filtration: Use filters to prevent emitter blockages.

• Maintenance: Flush system regularly.

• Timing: Apply during growth stages per plant needs.

Note: Verify product solubility; bone meal is unsuitable for fertigation.

Slow-Release or Frequent Application

The 0-12-0 fertilizer varies by formulation:

• Rock Phosphate/Bone Meal: Slow-release, applied once or twice per season.

• Triple Superphosphate: Quick-release, may need reapplication every 4–6 weeks if deficiency persists.

Note: Check label for formulation; avoid overuse per soil tests.

Suitability for Different Plants

The 0-12-0 fertilizer suits phosphorus-demanding plants:

• Phosphorus (12%): Supports root growth, flowering, and fruiting for vegetables (e.g., carrots, tomatoes) and flowers.

• Not Ideal For: Nitrogen/potassium-dependent plants (e.g., leafy greens, lawns) or low-phosphorus natives.

Note: Soil test to match plant needs.

Fertilizer Burn Risk and Precautions

Yes, overapplication risks burn due to high phosphorus (12%):

• Follow Rates: Use 1–1.5 teaspoons per square foot or 1 teaspoon–1/2 cup per plant.

• Soil Test: Confirm phosphorus needs.

• Even Application: Spread uniformly to avoid hotspots.

• Watering: Water thoroughly post-application.

• Avoid Foliage: Prevent direct contact with leaves/stems.

Note: Adhere to label rates to prevent damage.

Sensitive Plants to Avoid

Avoid using 0-12-0 on:

• Low-Phosphorus Natives: Excess phosphorus causes nutrient lockout (e.g., some wildflowers).

• Proteaceae Family: Grevilleas, banksias are sensitive to phosphorus toxicity.

• Mycorrhizal Plants: High phosphorus reduces fungal symbiosis (e.g., some perennials).

• Nitrogen-Loving Plants: Leafy greens need balanced nutrients.

• Aquatic Plants: Avoid near water bodies to prevent algal blooms.

Note: Soil test to ensure suitability.

Interactions with Pesticides, Herbicides, or Other Products

• Timing: Apply separately (days apart) to maintain efficacy.

• Compatibility: Test mixtures to avoid reactions (e.g., with calcium-based products).

• Plant Health: Avoid stressed plants.

• Runoff Prevention: Time applications to avoid heavy rain.

Note: Check labels for specific guidance.

Safety for Pets, Kids, and Pollinators

• Pets/Kids:

  • Ingestion: Store securely; ingestion may cause gastrointestinal upset.

  • Contact: Wear gloves; rinse skin/eyes if contacted.

  • Timing: Apply when pets/kids are absent; water in before re-entry.

• Pollinators: Safe if not applied to blooming flowers; avoid runoff to water bodies.

• Organic Alternatives: Use bone meal/rock phosphate for added safety.

Note: Follow label safety instructions.

Soil pH and Effectiveness

Soil pH affects phosphorus availability:

• Optimal Range (pH 6.0–7.0): Maximizes uptake.

• Acidic Soils (pH < 6.0): Phosphorus binds with iron/aluminum, reducing availability.

• Alkaline Soils (pH > 7.5): Phosphorus binds with calcium, limiting uptake.

• Soil Testing: Test pH and adjust with lime (to raise) or sulfur (to lower).

Note: Soil testing ensures effective use.

Leaching and Runoff Risks

• Phosphorus (12%): Low leaching due to soil binding but high runoff risk in heavy rain or saturated soils.

• Minimizing Risks:

  • Apply per soil test recommendations.

  • Incorporate into soil to reduce runoff.

  • Avoid application before heavy rain.

Note: Proper management prevents environmental harm.

Organic Certification Status

The 0-12-0 fertilizer varies by formulation:

• Bone Meal/Rock Phosphate: Often OMRI-listed or certified organic.

• Triple Superphosphate: Typically synthetic, not certified organic.

  
  

  Check the label or OMRI database for certification status.

Key Nutrients Supplied

• Macronutrients:

  • Phosphorus (12%): Supports root growth, flowering, and fruiting.

• Secondary Nutrients/Micronutrients: May include trace calcium (e.g., in bone meal); check label.

Note: Supplement nitrogen/potassium if needed, per soil tests.

Formulation Purpose

The 0-12-0 fertilizer is formulated for root development, flowering, and fruiting due to its high phosphorus content (12%). It’s ideal for phosphorus-deficient soils but not for general plant health due to no nitrogen/potassium.

Bio-stimulants, Mycorrhizae, or Beneficial Microbes

The 0-12-0 fertilizer typically includes only phosphorus (and trace calcium in some formulations). It does not contain:

• Bio-stimulants: Enhance nutrient uptake/stress tolerance.

• Mycorrhizae: Improve phosphorus/water absorption.

• Beneficial Microbes: Promote soil health.

Note: Use organic amendments for these benefits if needed.

Storage Guidelines

• Dry Location: Prevent moisture absorption to avoid caking.

• Sealed Containers: Use original packaging or airtight containers.

• Cool, Ventilated Area: Avoid heat and ensure air circulation.

• Off the Ground: Use pallets to prevent dampness.

• Child/Pet Safety: Store securely.

Note: Proper storage maintains efficacy.

Shelf Life and Expiration Concerns

The 0-12-0 fertilizer has an indefinite shelf life if stored properly:

• Conditions: Keep dry, sealed, and cool.

• Inspection: Check for clumping before use.

Note: Follow manufacturer storage guidelines.

Special Handling Requirements

• Humidity Sensitivity: Moderately hygroscopic; store dry to prevent caking.

• Corrosiveness: Non-corrosive but avoid prolonged metal contact; use plastic tools.

• Safety: Wear gloves/mask to avoid irritation or dust inhalation.

• Environmental Care: Avoid over-application to prevent runoff.

Note: Follow label instructions for safe handling.