When to Fertilize Plants in the Landscape and Garden

A balanced fertilizer mixture is best applied and incorporated in the soil before seeding and setting out plants. Many commercial fertilizers may burn tender plant roots and so should be mixed into the soil and not just dumped into the planting hole.

Many potting soils come “charged” already with some starter food all ready built in. Subsequent applications after plants are established can be made at regular intervals throughout the season.

In home vegetable gardens, the use of fertilizers is necessary for the production of good vegetables, and a side-dressing along the row, is recommended after plants are established. Do not apply fertilizer to woody plants or other perennials after the beginning of August, otherwise they may be forced into late, soft growth which will not “harden” off before winter, resulting in winter-killing.

Use high nitrogen fertilizers for leafy growth, such as green vegetables, hedges and lawns.

Up north, fertilizer application in early fall and again just after the snow goes will get lawn grasses off to a good start in the spring.

Related Articles Of Interest:

• Extra Fertilizer For Keeping Up Plant Growth
• Pruning Chrysanthemums For Fullness and Future Flowers
• Applying Fertilizer
• Liquid Feeding – Plants Grow and Yield Better