How to Fertilize Flower Beds
Many flower gardens will survive with little or no added fertilizers. An added supplement of nutrients will help the garden thrive, increasing the quality and quantity of the flowers and plants. By midsummer, many flower gardens may look a bit faded and wilted. In addition to an abundance of moisture, flower gardens will perk up with a light application of an organic fertilizer. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Shovel
- Garden gloves
- Organic compost
- Organic mulch
- Commercial rooting solution
- 10-10-10 or 13-13-13 commercial fertilizer
Instructions
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Take a soil sample to your county extension office or a landscape center to test its nutrient content. A soil test is the foundation for making an informed decision on the type and quantity of fertilizer to use. Soil that is deficient in iron will benefit from a liberal application of bone meal. Follow the instructions on the package label.
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Research the types of plants already established in your garden or those you wish to add. Many different species of plants have different nutrient and soil requirements. As an example, azaleas will flourish with a dose of Epsom salts added to the soil in the fall to encourage spring flowers.
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Fertilize to feed and encourage new growth and flower production. Most flowering plants will benefit from one to two applications of fertilizer during the growing season. The first application should be made in spring when new growth appears or when planting. Apply one pound per 100 square feet of garden area. Work it into the soil.
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Add organic compost to flower beds to help retain moisture and encourage growth. Spread a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic compost on the garden and work it well into the soil. As the compost decomposes, it will gradually add nutrients and avoid fertilizer burn.
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Use organic fertilizers, mulch and compost only. Commercial nonorganic products are often full of noxious chemicals that can upset the nutritional balance of the garden.
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