Wicked Growth 8-0-16 Fertilizer Guide

Recommended Application Rates for 8-0-16 Fertilizer

The 8-0-16 fertilizer (8% nitrogen, 0% phosphorus, 16% potassium) supports leafy growth (nitrogen) and enhances root development, disease resistance, and fruit quality (potassium). It’s ideal for potassium-deficient soils where phosphorus is sufficient, suitable for lawns, fruit trees, and vegetables.

Per Square Foot

• General Use (e.g., Lawns, Gardens): 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., Vegetables, Flowers): Use 1–2 teaspoons around the base, 2–3 inches from the stem.

• Large Plants (e.g., Shrubs, Trees): Apply 1–2 tablespoons around the drip line.

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

Per Gallon of Water

• Liquid Application: Dissolve 1 teaspoon per gallon of water for foliar feeding or root drenching.

• Method: Apply sparingly to soil or leaves (if specified), ensuring full dissolution. Use every 6–8 weeks.

Application Tips

• Soil Testing: Test soil to confirm potassium needs and avoid over-application.

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

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

Application Frequency of 8-0-16 Fertilizer

Apply 8-0-16 fertilizer every 6–8 weeks during the growing season, based on plant needs and soil tests:

• Lawns: 2–4 applications (spring to early fall).

• Fruit Trees/Vegetables: At planting and mid-season for potassium-heavy crops (e.g., tomatoes, potatoes).

• Flowers: At planting and every 6–8 weeks for perennials/annuals.

Note: Avoid over-fertilization; adjust 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 teaspoon per gallon of water) to prevent burn.

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

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

Best Time of Year or Season to Apply 8-0-16 Fertilizer

• Early Spring: Before planting or as growth begins to support roots for lawns, vegetables, and trees.

• Early Summer: During active growth to enhance fruit quality and plant vigor.

• Early Fall: For lawns or perennials to improve cold 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 1/4–1/2 teaspoon per seedling or 1–2 teaspoons per transplant, avoiding direct root contact.

• During Active Growth: Use 1–2 teaspoons per plant every 6–8 weeks for fruiting or stress resistance.

Note: Adjust based on soil tests and plant requirements.

Timing Around Flowering, Fruiting, or Dormancy Stages

• Flowering Stage: Apply sparingly to support plant health; supplement with phosphorus if needed for blooms.

• Fruiting Stage: Apply at fruit set to enhance quality and size with potassium (16%).

• Dormancy Stage: Apply before dormancy for perennials to boost reserves; avoid during full dormancy.

Note: Time applications for fruiting or pre-dormancy 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 8-0-16 Fertilizer

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

• Side-Dressing: Apply 1–2 teaspoons 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 teaspoon per gallon) if specified; avoid leaf burn.

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

Watering After Application

Yes, water in 8-0-16 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 8-0-16 Fertilizer with Other Products

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

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

• Compatibility: Avoid mixing with incompatible products (e.g., high-calcium fertilizers).

• 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 teaspoon 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 8-0-16 fertilizer is typically quick-release unless labeled as slow-release. Quick-release requires applications every 6–8 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 8-0-16 fertilizer suits potassium-demanding plants:

• Nitrogen (8%): Supports moderate leafy growth for lawns/vegetables.

• Potassium (16%): Enhances fruit quality, root strength, and stress resistance for potatoes, tomatoes, and fruit trees.

• Not Ideal For: Phosphorus-dependent plants (e.g., flowering annuals) or nitrogen-heavy crops (e.g., leafy greens).

Note: Soil test to match plant needs.

Fertilizer Burn Risk and Precautions

Yes, overapplication risks burn due to nitrogen (8%) and potassium (16%):

• Follow Rates: Use 1–2 teaspoons per square foot or 1–2 tablespoons 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 8-0-16 on:

• Phosphorus-Loving Plants: Flowering annuals/perennials (e.g., petunias) need phosphorus for blooms.

• Seedlings: High nutrients risk burn; use diluted rates.

• Acid-Loving Plants: Azaleas, blueberries may suffer from pH changes or lack of phosphorus.

• Nitrogen-Heavy Plants: Leafy greens need more nitrogen than 8%.

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 or reduced effectiveness.

• 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 nitrogen/potassium uptake.

• Acidic Soils (pH < 6.0): Potassium availability may decrease.

• Alkaline Soils (pH > 7.0): Micronutrient uptake 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 (8%): High leaching risk as nitrate, especially in sandy soils or heavy rain.

• Potassium (16%): 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 8-0-16 fertilizer is typically synthetic and not OMRI-listed or certified organic due to its chemical composition. Organic alternatives (e.g., compost, greensand) may provide similar nutrients and be certified. Check the label or OMRI database for confirmation.

Key Nutrients Supplied

• Macronutrients:

  • Nitrogen (8%): Supports leafy growth and photosynthesis.

  • Potassium (16%): Enhances fruit quality, root strength, and disease resistance.

• Secondary Nutrients/Micronutrients: May include trace calcium, magnesium, or sulfur (check label); no phosphorus.

Note: Supplement with phosphorus if needed, per soil tests.

Formulation Purpose

The 8-0-16 fertilizer is formulated for fruiting, root development, and stress resistance due to high potassium (16%) and moderate nitrogen (8%). It’s ideal for potassium-deficient soils but not for general plant health due to no phosphorus.

Bio-stimulants, Mycorrhizae, or Beneficial Microbes

The 8-0-16 fertilizer typically includes only nitrogen 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 8-0-16 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; 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.