7/2/2013 - By Harrell's

Trees, shrubs, and herbaceous ornamentals benefit greatly from proper fertilization.  Fertilizing with the proper complete fertilizer early in the year promotes the development of healthy landscape plants that can withstand stresses associated with the growing season.  Proper fertilization also promotes highly desirable aesthetic qualities such as flowering and blooms which result in beautiful landscape appearances.

Woody ornamental fertility requirements are determined by geographic location, maturity stage, and desired plant growth.  One application of a complete fertilizer may be sufficient on mature plants, while three to five may be necessary for younger plants.  In general, three to five pounds of nitrogen (N) per 1,000 sq ft per year is sufficient for most locations.  Southern regions may require up to three applications of three to five pounds of N per 1000 sq ft.  The use of a controlled-release fertilizer containing both macro- and micronutrients is highly desirable as nutrients in many landscapes are subject to leaching losses resulting from irrigation and heavy summer rainfall.  Finally, be sure to check soil pH at least once a year to confirm proper pH for each specific woody ornamental species.

Herbaceous ornamentals such as annuals and perennials are fertilized at the time of planting and at six to eight week intervals during the growing season depending on the specific type of plant species.  As with woody ornamentals, the use of a controlled-release fertilizer containing macro and micronutrients maximizes plant responses and minimizes undesired nutrient leaching losses.  Furthermore, the use of controlled-release fertilizers helps to reduce the chances of fertilizer burn.  In general, the application of a complete, controlled-release fertilizer at one to two pounds of N per 1000 sq ft per growing season is sufficient.  Again, remember to check soil pH yearly to confirm desirable pH conditions.