Now a lot of you may be thinking, “I thought spring was the time to do that?” And you’re not wrong. You definitely want to feed your hardy landscape plants at that time of year. They’re getting ready to do a whole lot of growing in the spring. Specifically, they’re growing what is known as vegetative growth, i.e. stems, leaves, flowers and fruits. And this type of growth requires a lot of nutrients and energy to happen. So it’s always smart to feed your landscape plants in the spring.
But the fall is just as, if not more so, important for feeding your landscape plants.
Why is Fall Such an Important Time?
Even though your landscape plants are done with all of that vegetative growth until next spring, there’s a whole lot of growing going on underground. We’re talking about root growth.
Plant roots are very particular about the temperatures they like to grow in, and will stop growing altogether when soil temperatures get too warm or cold. So roots stop growing during the summer and winter months.
But soil temperatures are optimum right now for vigorous root growth, often the most vigorous root growth of the entire year.
And because your landscape plant’s vegetative growth has ceased, any fertilizer you provide now is going to go right to those hungry roots, making your plants better and stronger for next season.
So now, along with spring, is the right time to feed your landscape plants. And we’re talking about all of your landscape plants: perennials, evergreens, flowering shrubs and roses.
The Espoma Organic Line of Fertilizers
We’re huge fans of the Espoma Organic line of fertilizers here at The Gardener’s Center.
- They provide natural, slow-release nutrients to your plants.
- They actually improve soil quality by adding organic matter.
- They contain living soil microbiology that is essential for healthy roots, plants and soil. Think probiotics, but for plants!
Espoma Organic Holly Tone for:
- Azaleas and Rhododendrons
- Holly and Mt. Laurel
- Arborvitaes, Spruce and Junipers
- Mophead Hydrangeas (if you want them to be as blue as they can be)
Espoma Organic Plant Tone for:
- Spirea, Forsythia, Rose of Sharon and other deciduous, blooming shrubs
- Panicle and Annabelle Hydrangeas
- Perennials
- Ornamental Grasses
- Roses
Love on your plants and keep them as happy and healthy as can be! With timely info like this, your Gardener’s Center friends are standing by to guide you. Happy fall and happy gardening!
