Tuesday, November 17, 2009

FAQ: My shrubs look weak. Should I fertilize them?

Q. My shrubs look weak. Should I fertilize them?

A. Determine why they look weak. It might not be a nutrition problem. Check for scale and other insects, and for damage by disease or rodents. Is grass growing too close and competing for nutrients? At any rate, take a soil sample to your nearby Cooperative Extension Service for analysis. You may need to adjust the pH of the soil. If your shrubs do need fertilizer, use one with low nitrogen content. You shouldn't stimulate growth prior to cold weather as it may be damaged by freezing temperatures. An application of organic compost is always in order.

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