Fertilizing 101: When, What, and How Much Your Plants Really Need

Fertilizer can make a big difference in how your plants grow, bloom, and produce—but more is not always better. The key is knowing when to fertilize, what type to use, and how much your plants actually need throughout the season.

At Wyman’s Garden Center, we carry trusted lawn and garden care brands like Espoma, Scotts, Bonide, Coast of Maine, FoxFarm, and Jonathan Green, so you can choose the right product for your plants, soil, and gardening goals.

When Should You Fertilize?

Most plants benefit from fertilizer during their active growing season. For many annuals, vegetables, herbs, perennials, shrubs, and lawns, that means spring through summer.

Start feeding when plants begin putting on new growth. Annuals and vegetables often need regular feeding because they grow quickly and use a lot of nutrients. Perennials and shrubs usually need less frequent feeding, especially once established.

Avoid heavy fertilizing late in the season. Feeding too much in late summer or fall can encourage tender new growth that may not harden off before cold weather.

What Kind of Fertilizer Do You Need?

Different plants have different needs. A balanced fertilizer works well for general garden care, while specialized products can help with specific goals.

For vegetables and herbs, look for fertilizers that support strong roots, healthy foliage, and fruit production. For flowering annuals and perennials, choose a bloom-supporting formula. For trees and shrubs, slow-release options are often a good fit. For lawns, use lawn-specific products designed for seasonal turf needs.

Organic gardeners often prefer products from brands like Espoma, Coast of Maine, and FoxFarm, while customers looking for targeted lawn and garden solutions may choose options from Scotts, Jonathan Green, or Bonide.

How Much Is Enough?

Always follow the label directions. Using too much fertilizer can burn roots, stress plants, or create lots of leafy growth with fewer flowers or fruits.

Container gardens usually need more frequent feeding than in-ground plants because nutrients wash out every time you water. Hanging baskets, patio pots, vegetables, and annual planters may need regular applications through the growing season.

In-ground perennials, shrubs, and established landscape plants typically need less. A slow, steady feeding approach is usually better than one heavy application.

Don’t Forget Water

Fertilizer works best when plants are properly watered. Dry plants are more likely to suffer fertilizer burn, so water before or after applying, depending on the product instructions. Healthy watering habits help nutrients move into the root zone where plants can actually use them.

Visit Wyman’s for the Right Fertilizer

Not sure which product to choose? Bring us your questions. The team at Wyman’s Garden Center can help you match the right fertilizer to your annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, shrubs, lawn, or container gardens.

And don’t forget to download the Wyman’s Garden Center app for updates, seasonal tips, special offers, and convenient ways to stay connected with what’s happening in-store: https://apjl.app/wymans

FAQ

How often should I fertilize my plants?
It depends on the plant and product. Annuals and containers usually need more frequent feeding, while shrubs and perennials often need less.

Can I over-fertilize?
Yes. Too much fertilizer can damage roots and reduce plant performance. Always follow the label.

Should I fertilize newly planted plants?
Use care. Some new plants benefit from gentle starter fertilizer, but strong feeding too soon can stress tender roots.

Do vegetables need special fertilizer?
Often, yes. Vegetables are heavy feeders and benefit from formulas designed to support growth and production.

Can Wyman’s help me choose the right fertilizer?
Yes. Visit Wyman’s Garden Center and we’ll help you find the right product for your plants and garden goals.