Things You'll Need:
- Japonica shrub
- Liquid fertilizer or compost
- Hose
- Water
- Trowel or shovel
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Step 1
Create a feeding schedule. Japonicas are typically fed on two different schedules. One is a feeding schedule throughout the growing season with liquid fertilizer. The second is an annual feeding of organic material such as compost, in late winter before the plant's growth season begins. Choose which feeding schedule works best for you.
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Step 2
Prepare the fertilizer. When preparing liquid fertilizer, follow the manufacturer's instructions closely. Make sure you choose a fertilizer specially formulated for evergreen shrubs. For composting, make sure your compost heap is turned and healthy.
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Step 3
Prepare the shrub for fertilizing. Clear away any debris or snow from around the base of the shrub. Refresh mulch or other mediums before fertilizing as well.
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Step 4
Apply the fertilizer to the japonica's roots. For liquid fertilizers, follow the instructions closely and apply with water. For compost, apply a liberal layer approximately two inches deep to the base of the shrub, about two feet in diameter.
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Step 5
Maintain your fertilization schedule. Liquid fertilizers require frequent feedings, approximately every twenty to twenty-five days. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging for the best results. Composting must only be applied once per year, but reapplication is essential to the proper feeding of the shrub.
