Fertilizing Perennial Flowers

Most perennials are not heavy feeders. A light fertilization of 2 to 3 pounds (1 to 1.5 kg.) of 5-10-10 or 10-10-10 per 100 square feet (9 sq. meters) should be applied in early spring. A second application is often made in mid-summer at the rate of 1 1/2 to 2 pounds (680 to 905 grams) per 100 square feet (10 sq. meters).

Take into consideration the amount of plant growth -- if growth is adequate you may not need to fertilize. Too much fertilizer will promote foliage and possibly diseases without necessarily promoting flower production.

Established perennial beds should be fertilized in early spring, if necessary. A soil test is the best way to find out what type and amount of fertilizer to use. Working granular fertilizers into the ground will get the nutrients closer to the plant roots.

Established beds cannot be easily dug over, but a claw-type hoe is useful to work the fertilizer granules into the top couple of inches of soil. This is also a good time to add some of your garden compost. It will help to keep the soil moist during those hot summer days, and keep weed growth down.

It is not necessary to remove the mulch before fertilizing. Water after applying fertilizer; this will wash fertilizer off the foliage, prevent foliage burn, and will make the fertilizer available more quickly. Organic gardeners choose from various products like fish emulsion or concentrated sea-weed products.