Bulb Fertilizer?

Discussion in 'Annuals, Biennials, Perennials, Ferns and Bulbs' started by GreenLeaf, Aug 25, 2005.

  1. GreenLeaf

    GreenLeaf Active Member 10 Years

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    Can I just use the all purpose 15-30-15 fertilizer for bulbs (tulips, daffodils, iris, crocus, etc.)? That's all I have right now and I don't know if I have to use the fertilizer specially designed for bulbs. I don't know if it really makes a difference...

    Thanks!
     
  2. Linda Poon

    Linda Poon Member

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    To determine the type of fertilizer you need, you not only need to know the type of plant but also the type of soil. The amount of nutrients available for plant uptake vary based on the type of soil as a result of soil-fertilizer interactions. However, generally speaking, an all purpose fertilizer is sufficient but not optimal for bulb growth (bulb fertilizer is usually 10-10-10). In the end I suggest that you use trial and error to determine the type and amount of fertilizer that makes your bulbs grow/bloom best.

    Hope this helps,
    Linda
     
  3. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    Instead of wasting time and money, possibly poisoning your soil (and contributing to water pollution) with unneeded fertilizer applications sample your soil and have it tested to get an idea what the situation is first.
     
  4. mr.shep

    mr.shep Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    Most any recognized complete vegetable food fertilizer
    will work just fine for Spring bulbs. A 15-30-15 is
    quite alright for these bulbs. I would use one teaspoon
    per Daffodil and Tulip bulb. One half a teaspoon for
    each Crocus and Dutch Iris bulb. A 10-10-10 is just
    fine also.

    I use a 6-12-6 every year for my bulbs sprinkled on
    top of the soil for an existing planting. Placed at the
    bottom of the hole then covered with 1-2 inches of fill
    soil and then the bulb placed on top of the fill soil and
    then covered over for a new planting. Then water the
    fertilizer in by hose, for either naturalized or new planting,
    just to wet it and then let the Winter rains do the rest.

    Jim
     
  5. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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