Food for performance:
With the amount and frequency that we need to water during the summer months, many times this amount of water will flush most of the nutrients out at the same time. This is especially true for containers, pots, planters, and baskets. To water a container effectively it is best to make sure water is saturating the entire planting area and running through the bottom. This will also take many vital nutrients right out with the water. Landscapes are not as severely affected, but additional fertilizer is needed for many of the summer time favorites.
When most items were planted earlier this spring they should have been planted with an application of fertilizer, this fertilizer has probably been used up by now. Adding an additional dose of "ColorStar" time released fertilizer should boost the vigor and performance of annuals through the hot months.

• Duranta: If you notice that your Duranta is on the not so robust side, give them a heavy dose of fertilizer and watch them explode.
• Moss Rose (portulaca): If the plants are pale, stringy, or have little to no flowers, this is sure sign that they are starving for food.
• Hibiscus: We refer to this tropical as 'the 18 year old young man with a bottomless stomach'. FEED, FEED, FEED Hibiscus for a spectacular display during the summer months and heat.
• Bougainvillea: Truly a heat and sun lover, this tropical likes to be abused just a bit to force another round of blooms. Dry them out just a little, trim the long runners, and apply heavy dose of food for a new explosion of color.
• Calibrachoa: for sure, this exciting bloomer requires another application of fertilizer to show off to its fullest for the hotter months. Weak, pale, little to no flowers, and stringy plants are a sure sign they will welcome some food.

If your plants and annuals are getting adequate water but they appear to be lacking vigor, dark green foliage and blooms this is pretty good sign that adding more fertilizer will benefit them.

Any commercial blend of plant food or annual fertilizer is good if used regularly and according to directions. For liquid feed, this means applying the correct rate about once a week this time of year. Using a time released blend, like "Color Star" (our favorite) will last about 2 months during the hotter weather while we are watering on a daily basis.
When applying either variety, apply the fertilizer during the coolest part of the day. Be it early morning or late in the evening. Rinse all foliage free of any residue or granules. If using a granular type, water in thoroughly to get the active ingredient to begin its initial release.