Fertilizer Basics

Step 1.

1. When preparing a new garden bed, cultivate the soil first. Sprinkle granular, slow-acting fertilizer on the soil, following label instructions, then rake it in.

Step 2.

2. The action of a rototiller incorporates granular fertilizer into the soil down 4 to 6 inches. Follow label instructions for the amount of fertilizer to use.

Step 3.

3. Spread fertilizer on beds in early spring to supply plants with uniform and consistent nutrition for up to 16 weeks -- a good main meal.

Step 4.

4. Follow the application of granular, slow-acting fertilizer with periodic snacks of water-soluble fertilizer. Spray it directly on foliage (foliar feeding) with a hose-end sprayer or spray bottle, to deliver a quick boost to plants about to flower or fruit. Follow label directions for dilution ratios to avoid harmful overfeeding.