Autumn Fertilization in Container Nurseries: A Sustainable Future

Autumn is a crucial period for container nurseries. While most plants prepare for winter dormancy, it’s essential to apply fertilizers strategically. A well-executed autumn fertilization provides a foundation for a strong start to the growing season and healthy winter development. In this blog, we will discuss why and how autumn fertilization is essential, with a focus on Mivena’s products like Horticote High K and Horticote Standard, tailored to the specific needs of nurseries.

The Importance of Root Development in Autumn

During autumn, the plant’s energy shifts from above-ground growth to root development. This phase is critical as the roots not only anchor the plant but also act as channels for water and nutrient transport. Strong roots are essential for surviving harsh conditions such as frost and drought.

In container cultivation, where plants grow in limited substrate, root development is even more vital. With restricted space, growers must ensure optimal nutrient utilization. Fertilizers like Horticote High K, which is high in potassium, not only promote root development but also enhance the plant’s winter hardiness, reducing the risk of over-fertilization and root stress.

Climate Change and Flexibility in Fertilization

With climate change leading to longer and warmer autumn periods, plants remain active for extended periods, altering their nutrient needs. Where October once marked the end of the growing season, this can now stretch into November or even later, requiring more flexibility in fertilization practices.

Horticote Standard, a controlled-release fertilizer, provides the perfect solution. This fertilizer supplies plants with the right amount of nutrients over a longer period, ensuring neither over- nor underfeeding. It helps growers efficiently manage changing weather conditions, such as rainfall that can leach nutrients from containers. When combined with proper moisture management, Horticote prevents leaching and ensures a continuous nutrient supply, even in wet conditions. This slow release reduces the risk of deficiencies and optimizes nutrient uptake by the plant.

Biostimulants: An Added Value

Biostimulants are playing an increasingly important role in modern fertilization strategies. They help plants cope better with stress, improve nutrient absorption, and optimize growth, even under challenging conditions. This is particularly valuable in autumn when unpredictable weather such as frost, rain, or drought can impact cultivation.

Mivena has integrated biostimulants into its products, like MV10 from the Granusol® line, enhancing plant health and growth. The combination of biostimulants and balanced nutrients in Horticote High K strengthens the root system and increases the plant’s resistance. This allows growers to better handle seasonal challenges while boosting their plants’ growth and vitality.

The demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly cultivation methods is rising. More and more growers are transitioning to organic solutions, such as the Biorganic® series from Hauert. These fertilizers enhance microbial activity and improve soil structure, essential in intensive container cultivation. Additionally, Mivena offers water-soluble fertilizers like Granusol® WSF, which are quickly and efficiently absorbed through drip irrigation and sprinkler systems. These solutions are ideal for cold autumn conditions, where fast nutrient uptake is critical.

The Ideal Autumn Fertilizers for Container Nurseries

For optimal autumn fertilization in container nurseries, Mivena offers a wide range of products tailored to the unique needs of growers:

– Horticote High K (13-10-18+MgO+TE): Rich in potassium (22% K₂O), it enhances the winter hardiness of plants and promotes strong root development. The controlled release ensures a steady nutrient supply throughout autumn and winter.

– Horticote Standard (15-6-12+2MgO+TE): A well-balanced fertilizer suitable for general plant maintenance, providing a stable nutrient supply, which is essential in autumn.

– Granusol® WSF (10-10-30+6MgO): A water-soluble fertilizer ideal for drip irrigation and sprinkler systems. Its fast nutrient release is perfect for colder autumn temperatures.

More information about these products and their applications can be found on our product page: https://mivena.nl/search-by-product/

Application and Timing

The best time to apply autumn fertilizers is in September or October, before the plants enter full dormancy. Potassium-rich fertilizers, like Horticote High K, are key as potassium aids in hardening shoots and improving the plant’s winter hardiness. Magnesium also plays a role in photosynthesis, even as this process slows down in autumn.

Conclusion

Autumn fertilization is an investment in the future of your cultivation. By applying the right nutrients now, your plants will emerge stronger after winter and thrive in spring. Mivena offers a comprehensive range of fertilizers specifically designed for the needs of container cultivation, with a focus on sustainability and efficiency.

Contact our technical experts for personalized fertilization advice, or visit our product page for more information. Together, we work towards a healthy and sustainable future for your plants!