Question. As spring MAY be arriving here, southern MD,

[elleng]

and my outside plants are showing signs of life, I'd like to know about feeding them.

Camellia has already blossomed, unfortunately many blooms took recent freeze and heavy winds rather badly, but it's a well-established bush.

Azalea is showing signs of life, new leaves, and hydrangea's new growth is very promising.

I also have 2 rose bushes, in large pots, with new growth showing.

Do I need different kinds of fertilizer for each, or is there one that can serve all?

Thanks!

[MFM008]

1. my son worked garden shop at Lowes

he says try Osmocote.
runs between 4 to 30 dollars, depends on how much you need.
He said he just used it to replant his new shoots. you can sprinkle it on the top or around roots. Check it out.

[elleng]

2. Thanks, will look for it.

[NRaleighLiberal]

3. Camellia and azalea like acidic conditions, roses balanced.

Miracle Gro and other companies (Vigoro) sell products that are pH adjusted toward different types of shrubs. Espoma surely makes organic gardening alternatives as well. The labels will be very clear on which types of shrubs like which types of food.

I wouldn't rush feeding - feeding tends to help plants in the following blossoming season...my view - let the weather settle down before you hit the plants with lots of food.

[elleng]

4. I'll gladly wait, but as I pass and 'chat' with them daily,

I thought I'd get some info.

Used Miracle Gro on the roses last 3 years, but thinking I've neglected the others which have been here since before I arrived (and feeling sad the camellia kind of beaten up by the weather. Got some lovely pics of EARLY opened camellia buds.)