Common Gardening Questions

1. What type of fertilizer is best for my lawn, and when do I fertilize?

We suggest first get you soil tested every two to three years to help you monitor the levels of the three nutrients in fertilizer. The nutrients are "Nitrogen" first number, "Phosphorus" middle number, "Potassium" third number. Quick summary of importance of each element to plants :

* Nitrogen - Most important, provides "green up," growth in your lawn.
* Phosphorus - Root development, flower and fruit development.
* Potassium - Builds up summer and winter hardiness.

For lawns in most part of Texas, a ratio of 3-1-2 on the label works best, and slow -release is a must. Example 15-5-10. The best time to fertilize is April, July, October, and I promise, three times a year is plenty.

2. How much and how often do I water my lawn?

Most of us in Houston have St. Augustine grass. This type of grass requires more water than most. IMPORTANT POINT: frequent shallow watering is harmful. Shallow watering forces the roots to stay on the surface and exposes the roots to the harsh conditions of Houston weather. If we water enough each time, we can water less often. Allowing the water to reach a 4 to 6 inch depth is ideal. Try to apply 1 inch of water to your lawn per week. If weather conditions become extreme, you should increase that amount. Water just before sunrise. Watering at night may promote conditions for disease.

3. When should I prune and fertilize my azaleas?

Prune azaleas after they bloom. Try to prune plants selectively. Don't attack them with hedgers. Fertilize after the blooming cycle with high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote thick regrowth this spring. Later this spring you should repeat this application. When early fall comes along, we want to feed our azaleas with Azalea/Camellia/Gardenia fertilizer so we encourage and promote flower bud set before cold weather arrives. Make sure to water all fertilized areas immediately after application. Provide a 2-3 inch layer of mulch year round for all of your azaleas... they will love it.

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