Return to the Azalea & Rhododendron Forum
| Post a Follow-Up
fertilize
| | |
Posted by bobbygil 7 (rascal559@aol.com) on Tue, Feb 24, 09 at 14:29
| Hi..I have some old transplanted azaleas..some transplanted native and some new ( one gal ) native azaleas. Can I just use cottonseed meal on them ? And when is the best time to apply it...thanks bobby |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: fertilize
| | |
- Posted by morz8 Z8 Wa coast (My Page) on
Tue, Feb 24, 09 at 23:24
| Hi Bobby - Are you seeing symptoms in your azaleas you feel you need to address? Azaleas that have been planted in soil high in organic content may not need feeding for several years, if at all. Cottonseed meal has nitrogen, if your azaleas have a need for additional nitrogen that need would be highest during period of active growth...right at bloom time when the new foliage buds begin to open (Spring). It's early for most of us to be thinking about supplemental fertilizers, still a little chilly to want to stimulate new growth....April, possibly again in June, but not as a regular part of a gardening schedule, only if they are showing you in leaf color or vigor that something may be lacking. If there is reason to fertilize, cottonseed meal can be a good choice, slow acting so little chance of damaging roots. Another choice is Hollytone but at about half the strength suggested on package directions. There is a chance your new 1-gal container grown plants have had fertilizer, it's not unusual for timed-release pellets to be visible as you are transplanting so don't assume all the plants may have the same needs. |
RE: fertilize
| | |
- Posted by bboy z8 WA USA (My Page) on
Wed, Feb 25, 09 at 1:26
| In other words we don't know. It depends on what has been done to them up to this point and what, if anything they might need now. Soils vary in nutrient content, and you don't want to put on something that doesn't fit the particular mix of available minerals your soil has at this time. One thing you can do is sample your soil and have it tested. Your state Cooperative Extension Service should be able to help with this. |
|
|
|
|
