Wicked Growth 16-10-13 Fertilizer Guide

Recommended Application Rates for 16-10-13 Fertilizer

The 16-10-13 fertilizer is a balanced fertilizer with 16% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, and 13% potassium, suitable for vegetables, flowers, shrubs, and trees, promoting leafy growth, root development, flowering, and fruit quality.

Per Square Foot

• General Use (e.g., Gardens, Lawns): Apply 1–2 teaspoons per square foot (equivalent to 0.5–1 pound per 100 square feet).

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

Per Plant

• Small Plants (e.g., Annuals, Vegetables): Use 1–2 tablespoons around the base, 4–6 inches from the stem.

• Medium Plants (e.g., Small Shrubs, Tomatoes): Apply 2–4 tablespoons per plant.

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

• 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 or foliar feeding (if specified).

• Method: Apply to soil or leaves, ensuring full dissolution. Use every 2–4 weeks.

Application Tips

• Soil Testing: Test soil to confirm nutrient needs.

• Timing: Apply during active growth (spring/summer).

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

Application Frequency of 16-10-13 Fertilizer

Apply 16-10-13 fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season, based on plant needs and soil tests:

• Vegetables/Flowers: At planting and every 4–6 weeks.

• Lawns: 3–4 applications (spring to early fall).

• Trees/Shrubs: Early spring and late summer/early fall.

Note: Avoid over-fertilization; adjust based on soil tests.

Application Rate Differences for Established Plants and Seedlings

Yes, rates differ due to sensitivity:

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

• Established Plants: Apply full rates (1–2 teaspoons per square foot or 1 tablespoon–1/2 cup per plant) to support growth.

Note: Soil test to tailor rates and prevent nutrient imbalances.

Best Time of Year or Season to Apply 16-10-13 Fertilizer

• Early Spring: Before planting or as growth begins for lawns, vegetables, and shrubs.

• Early Summer: During active growth to support flowering/fruiting.

• Early Fall: For perennials or lawns to boost winter hardiness.

Note: Avoid late fall applications to prevent frost-sensitive growth; confirm need with soil tests.

Application Timing Relative to Planting Stages

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

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

• During Active Growth: Use 1–2 teaspoons per square foot or 1–4 tablespoons per plant every 4–6 weeks.

Note: Adjust based on soil tests and plant requirements.

Timing Around Flowering, Fruiting, or Dormancy Stages

• Flowering Stage: Apply before bud formation to support blooms with phosphorus and potassium.

• Fruiting Stage: Use early in fruiting to enhance fruit quality; moderate nitrogen prevents excessive foliage.

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

Note: Time applications for pre-flowering or early 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: Monitor weather to optimize uptake and minimize runoff.

Application Methods for 16-10-13 Fertilizer

• Topdressing: Spread 1–2 teaspoons per square foot for lawns/gardens; water in.

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

• Soil Incorporation: Mix 1–2 teaspoons per square foot into soil before planting.

• Foliar Spray: Use sparingly (1 tablespoon per gallon) if specified; avoid leaf burn.

Note: Choose method based on plant needs; topdressing/side-dressing is most common.

Watering After Application

Yes, water in 16-10-13 fertilizer to:

• Dissolve granules for root uptake.

• Prevent leaf burn by washing off foliage.

• Ensure even nutrient distribution.

• Reduce runoff risk.

Note: Follow label watering guidelines.

Mixing 16-10-13 Fertilizer with Other Products

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

• Soil Test: Confirm nutrient needs to avoid over-application.

• 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:

• 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 and system compatibility.

Slow-Release or Frequent Application

The 16-10-13 fertilizer is typically quick-release, requiring applications every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Check the label for slow-release formulations, which may need only 1–2 applications per season.

Suitability for Different Plants

The 16-10-13 fertilizer is versatile for general plant health:

• Nitrogen (16%): Supports leafy growth for vegetables/lawns.

• Phosphorus (10%): Enhances root development and flowering for vegetables/flowers.

• Potassium (13%): Improves fruit quality and stress resistance for shrubs/trees.

• Not Ideal For: Plants needing low nitrogen or specific nutrient ratios.

Note: Soil test to match plant needs.

Fertilizer Burn Risk and Precautions

Yes, overapplication risks burn due to high nutrient content:

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

• Soil Test: Confirm nutrient needs.

• Even Application: Use spreaders for uniformity.

• 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 16-10-13 on:

• Succulents/Cacti: High nitrogen risks excessive growth or burn.

• Orchids: Prefer lower nutrient levels.

• Proteaceae (e.g., Proteas): Sensitive to phosphorus toxicity.

• Seedlings: Use diluted rates to avoid burn.

• Acid-Loving Plants: Azaleas, blueberries need specialized formulas.

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: Consider natural options for added safety.

Note: Follow label safety instructions.

Soil pH and Effectiveness

Soil pH affects nutrient availability:

• Optimal Range (pH 6.0–7.0): Maximizes uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

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

• Alkaline Soils (pH > 7.5): Phosphorus binds with calcium; micronutrients may be limited.

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

Note: Soil testing ensures effective nutrient use.

Leaching and Runoff Risks

• Nitrogen (16%): High leaching risk as nitrate in sandy soils or heavy rain.

• Phosphorus (10%): Low leaching but high runoff risk in heavy rain.

• Potassium (13%): Moderate leaching; binds to soil but may move in low-CEC soils.

• Minimizing Risks:

  • Apply per soil test recommendations.

  • Incorporate into soil to reduce runoff.

  • Avoid application before heavy rain.

Note: Proper management minimizes environmental impact.

Organic Certification Status

The 16-10-13 fertilizer is typically synthetic and not OMRI-listed or certified organic due to its chemical composition. Organic alternatives (e.g., compost, manure) may provide similar nutrients and be certified. Check the label or OMRI database for confirmation.

Key Nutrients Supplied

• Macronutrients:

  • Nitrogen (16%): Supports leafy growth and photosynthesis.

  • Phosphorus (10%): Enhances root development, flowering, and fruiting.

  • Potassium (13%): Improves fruit quality, disease resistance, and water uptake.

• Micronutrients: Typically none unless specified; check label for additives like calcium, magnesium, or sulfur.

Note: Supplement micronutrients if needed, per soil tests.

Formulation Purpose

The 16-10-13 fertilizer is formulated for general plant health, with emphasis on leafy growth (nitrogen), root development and flowering (phosphorus), and fruit quality/stress resistance (potassium). It’s ideal for balanced nutrient needs, particularly for fruiting/flowering plants.

Bio-stimulants, Mycorrhizae, or Beneficial Microbes

The 16-10-13 fertilizer typically includes only nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It does not contain:

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

• Mycorrhizae: Improve nutrient/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 16-10-13 fertilizer has an indefinite shelf life if stored properly:

• Conditions: Keep dry, sealed, and cool.

• Inspection: Check for clumping or discoloration before use.

Note: Follow manufacturer storage guidelines.

Special Handling Requirements

• Humidity Sensitivity: Hygroscopic; store dry to prevent caking.

• Corrosiveness: Mildly corrosive to metals (due to ammonium compounds); use plastic tools and clean metal equipment.

• 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.