Feed Me! (sit down or fast food?)

There are two common types of plant food for container gardens: time-release and water soluble. They both offer plants a boost, but they do it in different ways. Time-release fertilizer looks like little balls. These are sprinkled onto the top of the potting mix and stirred in to a depth of about 1 inch. These will “melt” and release nutrients slowly—they may last for weeks or months. 

Water soluble fertilizer looks like blue or green granules. You prepare the fertilizer by mixing the appropriate amount with water and then watering your plants. (Check the package for more information.) Water-soluble fertilizer provides a quick, but short-lived, burst of food. In fact, you’ll need to give your plants a dose of this type of fertilizer each week. 

We suggest you feed your plants throughout the growing season. If you don’t mind fertilizing every week, then you might prefer a water soluble fertilizer. If you prefer the convenience of “once-and-done” then you should opt for time-release fertilizer.  Check package instructions for the appropriate amount to use.

Look for the “OMRI” if you want to be sure your fertilizer is certified organic.