Hi guys just wanted to vent. Last weekend before the rains hit phx i decided to throw some Osmocote " slow " release fertilizer under the mulch of my Lemon zest and Peach cobbler. Within a few days wilted crispy leaves and that "wrinkling look " to the branches you start to see around that time - meaning eminent Death !
Next all leaves turned brown dry and crispy on both trees . I couldn't believe it - i was fuming at myself !
For those that are growing mangoes for a while now you know when you see that this tree is a goner - I may be wrong but that's my observation.
Was wondering for the last few days why i was feeling kinda down then i realized that it's a little bit like when a pet / family member dies
you kinda built a relationship with this tree (Watering , mulching , foliar spray , observing it weekly ) . I had gotten these trees through a whole summer in Phx 115 degree heat sometimes and i just realized it bothered me that they died. All that work / effort / time spent down the drain.
I did learn a few valuable lessons
. Use very little non - organics on my fruit trees (especially the mangoes)
. Spread very , very lightly 1/4 of what directions call for around the outer canopy
. If somethings working to make the trees grow steady but healthy keep doing it - why change?
Lastly , follow my intuition to not use any because they were looking fine already with light regular drenches of a mixture of fish / kelp and molasses
I did replace the Lemon Zest yesterday with My 3 Gal Pin Saen Mun . Felt good to have that on hand at least !
Good news is next year i am after a sweet tart and another Lemon Zest
Can anyone relate or am i crazy for feeling this way ?
Thanks , now i feel better .