As a plant physiologist by training, I'd be looking for data (studies) to show benefit/detriment of watering first then fertilizing. Have not seen data from any well-controlled studies. Until then, this is just anecdotal speculation & the theory doesn't "hold any water" for me.
Theoretically, a very concentrated fertilizer solution could "pull" water out of the roots via osmotic potential. This could potentially dehydrate/damage/burn the roots. But it would probably have to be a much stronger solution than is typically used these days. Personally, I have used MSU fertilizer, Miracle Grow Tomato Fertilizer, etc. for years without applying plain water first, with no apparent ill effects. Plus, who has the time to water twice??? Currently I use controlled release pellets (Dynamite - available at HD) so have little need for fertilizer solutions except as a supplement applied when/as needed. My two cents.
- Carl in PA
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Fertilizing and watering question
Any clarification or explanation would be greatly appreciated....I have always just gone with the watering once whether I am using fertilizer or not.
I flush my pots first to rid the pot and s/h medium of built up salts then fertilize.
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