Ironite usage on potted figs

[yoimthatguy]

I picked up some ironite cheap at Walmart because I've heard lot of people have had some success with it as a source of micros for their figs.

Can anyone with experience with the stuff have give me some insights on how best to apply to my potted figs? The bag only has recommendations for distributing over grass.

[PA Figs]

Put hand in bag, grab handfull, toss in pots. I'm sure others have more precise methids, but that is mine

[AscPete]

I've been applying Ironite Mineral Supplement on potted fig trees for the past 3 growing seasons and have seen a marked difference in the health of the treated trees compared to untreated...

1/4 cup of Ironite Mineral supplement along with
1 cup of Pulverized Limestone / Gypsum or Mittlieder Pre-plant mix (80 - 4 - 1 ratio of Dolemite Limestone - Epsom Salt - Boron) and
1 - 3 cups / Recommended Dose of a complete fertilizer (Mineral based - Organic)

is enough fertilization for a 5 gallon (or #7 nursery pot) potted fig tree.

[ross]

Do you think the limestone is necessary? The micronutrients are great, but how do you feel about the ph side of it, Pete? Do figs really benefit from a higher ph? What do you think about this thread? http://figs4funforum.websitetoolbox....n-east-5255615

[ross]

Do you think the limestone is necessary? The micronutrients are great, but how do you feel about the ph side of it, Pete? Do figs really benefit from a higher ph? What do you think about this thread? http://figs4funforum.websitetoolbox....n-east-5255615

[AscPete]

Ross,
Yes, its necessary...

Gypsum can be substituted for limestone if pH is an issue, but when used with Peat Moss and Pine Bark Mulch (my potting mix ingredients) the Limestone has minimal impact on the pH but adds the needed Calcium and Magnesium once it starts breaking down with the help of beneficial soil microbes.

BTW, Ficus carica are native to limestone soils in the Mediterranean... and like most plants can grow within a pH range of ~ 6 to 8

[ross]

Ironite contains arsenic and lead. Just thought you guys should know!

But I would also agree that micronutrients make a huge difference for fig leaves. It's noticeable.

[ross]

Thanks for the link, Pete. That's extremely useful. I did check Ironite, and it's arsenic is at 5.55 parts per million. Is that a lot?

[AscPete]

You're welcome...
Ironite Mineral Supplement is ~ 0.55 PPM which is comparatively low
Espoma Garden-Tone is 3.0 PPM
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose is ~ 0.88 PPM

[don_sanders]

I'm far from an expert but I did look into this a little while back and ironite is lower than most of the organic fertilizers that I use and is probably lower than even the soil that you are planting in.

Arsenic in espoma plant tone is 9 ppm.

According to the Washington Toxic Coalition, the National average levels of lead in soil is 17 ppm and arsenic is at 9 ppm.

So at 5.55 ppm, ironite would actually be lowering your soils arsenic levels assuming you were at the average.