Fertilizing

Plants don't eat, but they do need to be fed.  How's that for a paradox?  Define feed as a verb meaning: "to supply something necessary for growth" and it becomes clear. 

Why Fertilize? 

When to Fertilize

Deciding when to fertilize is not as difficult as it might seem.  Some general guidelines and indicators will get you on the right path.  First some guidelines:

·        Fertilizing is normally not necessary the first year after planting

·        Never fertilize a plant in the late summer/early fall

·        Use organic fertilizers where possible

·        Over abundance of nutrients is as harmful as a deficiency

·        A soil test is the best indication of nutrient requirement

Clues indicating fertilization is necessary:

·        Poor, stunted growth

·        Chlorosis (leaves looking yellow or pale green)

·        Lack of flowering and fruiting

Types of Fertilizer

After establishing that your plant needs to be fed, it is necessary to decide what type of fertilizer to use.  There are many options available. 

Organic vs. Synthetic

This distinction separates fertilizers based upon origin.  Those that were, or were a by product of, a living organism are considered organic.  Synthetic fertilizers undergo a synthesis to become a fertilizer.  Generally speaking, synthetic fertilizers have more nutrients available faster than organic fertilizers. 

Slow Release vs. Fast Release

This refers to the speed at which the nutrients are available to plants.  Slow release fertilizers have a lasting effect that is longer than fast release fertilizers.

For annual flowering plants a water soluble fertilizer (e.g. MiracleGro) applied every few weeks will improve plant performance.

Quick List of Recommended Fertilizers

Flower-tone® slow release for perennials and annuals

Holly-tone® for acid loving plants

MiracleGro® fast release for annuals

Plant-tone® for general feeding

Tree-tone® for flowering and shade trees

Sources