Roots At Surface Of Soil

Question

I have some issues with feeder roots at the soil level. Each time I fertilize and improve the soil via top dressing, I tear up several roots. Dispite my efforts not to. Is this typical? It doesn’t appear to affect the plants.

Answer 1

I don't know which plant you are top dressing, but I wonder if you mean side dressing. When adding fertilizer or compost to the side of plants, you don't need to work it in. Just water it in and the nutrients will filter down into the soil. This works even if you are trying to improve clay soil. The earthworms will work it in for you.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/what-is-side-dressing.htm