I would do it now, scratching the fertilizer in, before the many tender shoots appear. Then later, after those perennials show up, I'd mulch with composted manure, which is also a fertilizer, only less concentrated.

Carol,

Just the answer I was hoping for. The Osmocote should give the perennials a good start, and my Spring bulbs will appreciate the boost after they've finished blooming.

Later in the season I intend to use composted leaves as a mulch, but will mix in some well-composted manure as well. Thanks for that tip as well.

Leslie