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Side-Dressing Technique: Reducing Nutrient Leaching

By side-dressing, gardeners can strategically supply additional nutrients to plants during their growing season, ensuring that they receive a steady and balanced supply of essential elements. This technique helps to replenish nutrients that may have been washed away by heavy rains or excessive irrigation, preventing them from leaching beyond the root zone.

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When side-dressing, it is important to choose the right type of fertilizer or compost that matches the specific nutrient requirements of the plants. Organic options, such as compost or well-rotted manure, are often preferred as they not only provide nutrients but also improve soil structure and promote beneficial microbial activity.

To side-dress, create a shallow trench or furrow around the plants, keeping it a few inches away from the base of the stems. Gently apply the chosen fertilizer or compost into the trench, taking care not to disturb the plant roots. Once applied, lightly cover the fertilizer with soil, ensuring it is well incorporated into the top layer.

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By side-dressing, gardeners can effectively reduce nutrient leaching by providing a targeted and controlled nutrient supply to the plants. This technique helps to maintain a healthy balance of nutrients in the soil, promoting optimal plant growth and minimizing the risk of nutrient loss.

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