Side dressing
/ˈsaɪd ˌdrɛsɪŋ/
Definition
Side dressing refers to a fertilizing technique in which nutrients are applied to the soil beside established plants or along crop rows after planting. The material is placed near, but not directly against, stems or roots, so water can carry nutrients into the root zone without causing burn. It differs from mixing fertilizer into soil before planting and is commonly used during active growth to supply extra nitrogen or other nutrients.
Use in Gardening
- Feeds roots during active growth: It is most useful when plants begin rapid leaf, stem, or fruit production and need more nitrogen or other nutrients than the original soil mix can supply.
- Reduces nutrient loss: Small later applications can match plant uptake better than one large feeding, which may lower leaching in sandy soil or after heavy rain.
- Needs careful placement: Material placed too close to stems can burn tissue or damage shallow roots, especially with fast-release fertilizers, so it is kept slightly away from the plant base.
- Common with heavy-feeding crops: Gardeners often use it for vegetables such as corn, tomatoes, and cabbage, which may benefit from extra nutrition partway through the season.
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