What number cheap fertilizer should I buy to throw on large bushes in my yard?

Question

I have too many plants to use the timed released fertilizer. I'm planning to buy a 50 lb.bag. I also heard that it can be added to my compost pile and it will decompose more quickly. Is that true?

Answer 1

People generally buy 10-10-10. That's easiest to find in stores. You can use it on the lawn, garden, and trees. A fifty pound bag is a LOT of fertilizer.

Answer 2

Don't use any fertilizer on shrubs in the summer, especially this late in the summer. The nitrogen will stimulate shoot growth which will not have time to harden off before frost and you will get winter dieback.

Most shrubs do not need fertilizer once they are mature. If you want to fertilize, it is best to use slow release organic and use it in the fall after the shrubs enter dormancy (lose leaves).

Using cheap instant release fertilizer is false economy as you need to use more of it -- it breaks down quickly and the plant has nothing later which means you may need to fertilize several times a year. Slow release fertilizer is released slowly over the season, one small handful yearly is enough. Spend the same money on a small bag of slow release, use a small amount once on your plants and don't put any into the compost.

Answer 3

just buy miracle grow and spray it on your plants.