Chad I see it differently. BUT I do not have knowledge of cottonseed meal. For a 4 acre pond I can get a good bloom with three applications of water soluble fertilizer at 4-8 lbs/acre in April and May. So this would be 72 lbs or lets just say 3 bags. My price would be $150. Ewest would be $105. This might carry a bloom through June. The cottonseed meal might do the same or it might just result in a thick bloom that would last until the hot summer months. I just do not see how it is controllable.
So two points if worried about bloom in summer how do you know it will not affect things then. If it does not carry the bloom through June then why not use water soluble that is more controlled and cheaper?
Also I do not get this �do not fertilize in summer� mentality of many pond owners. Limit fertilizer YES but not doing it is missing lots of potential productivity in the pond. We monitor with use of secchi disc so we can see what is happening. We fertilize not at all or with 2-4 lbs/acre instead of 4-8 lbs in the spring. Many clients do not need fertilization at all some need a little but if water needs it when too clear I say do it with caution and knowledge of what you are doing. If the pond has less than 24 inches of visibility as you or some midwest pond owners then correct DO NOT fertilize.
Chad this is not directed at you more of a theoretical discussion sorry if caught in the crossfire. Ewest you agree or disagree or better yet can you explain my point in a more eloquent manner.
