Winter on the Flower Farm | What We Use for Fertility and Pest Management
In our earlier post about what we do in winter to prepare for the growing season, I shared how much of this time of year is spent planning. Reviewing the past season, refining our crop plan, and making decisions early so spring does not feel rushed. This post is a continuation of that winter work.
Beyond crop planning, winter is also when we make sure we are prepared with the fertilizers, sprays, and inputs we rely on once the field is in full production. These are not things we decide on in the middle of the season. They are part of the same preparation process, knowing that no matter how solid the plan is, adjustments will always be needed once the season is underway.
Going into last growing season, I felt like I had a great plan. And for the most part, I did. But as the season unfolded, things came up that required changes, which is just part of farming. I expect the same will be true this year. Having what we need already on hand does not prevent challenges, but it does take some of the stress out of responding when something unexpected shows up.
Before getting into fertilizers and sprays, it is important to say that soil testing should always come first. Every field is different, and knowing what your soil actually needs matters. Soil tests guide decisions around amendments and help avoid unnecessary or unbalanced applications. What works for us is based on our soil and our crops, not a one size fits all approach.
We know our plants need consistent fertility throughout the growing season. Rather than relying on one heavy application, we plan for steady feeding to support ongoing growth and production.
The main fertilizer we use throughout the season is Neptune’s Harvest Rose and Flowering Fertilizer. We use it consistently because it supports flowering crops well and fits into how we manage fertility over time. Based on soil test results, we are also planning to add lime in the spring to help adjust soil pH. Amendments are always applied with intention and tied back to what the soil actually needs.
We also make sure our insecticides and fungicides are stocked before the season starts. Waiting until there is a problem makes everything feel reactive. Having these tools on hand allows us to respond quickly and thoughtfully when pressure shows up.
We use organic options and rotate products so we are not relying on any single tool too heavily. Each product serves a different purpose and they are not interchangeable.
Our rotation includes:
Cease - Cease is a biological fungicide and bactericide. We use it preventatively to help manage common fungal and bacterial issues such as botrytis, powdery mildew, and leaf spots. It works by introducing beneficial bacteria that outcompete disease organisms.
OxiDate 2.0 - OxiDate 2.0 is a broad spectrum oxidizer used to knock back disease pressure quickly on contact. It is especially helpful during periods of high humidity or extended wet weather. It does not provide long term protection, but it works well as a reset tool when pressure is high.
Safer Soap - Safer Soap is an insecticidal soap used primarily for soft bodied insects like aphids, thrips, and spider mites. It works on contact and is most effective when used early, before populations become established.
Venerate - Venerate is a biological insecticide that targets a broader range of insect pests. It works by disrupting feeding and digestion, making it a good option to rotate with other products and reduce resistance over time.
These products are tools, not solutions on their own. They work best as part of a larger system that includes plant spacing, airflow, timing, and overall plant health.
Taking inventory and ordering these supplies during winter helps keep the season calmer once things get busy. It also helps control spending. When fertilizers and sprays are tied directly to a crop plan and known systems, it is easier to avoid over buying or purchasing things out of panic.
Winter is when we slow down, reflect on what worked, and prepare intentionally for what is ahead. Making sure we have our fertility and pest management supplies ready to go is one more way we set ourselves up for a smoother growing season.
