Fertilizing

Unless very large quantities of organic fertilizer materials are applied, commercial fertilizer is usually needed for Florida gardens. Gardeners find it convenient to use commonly available fertilizer grades such as 8-8-8 or 15-15-15. Be sure to include micronutrients if soil pH is above 6.3. The quantities shown in Table 1 are usually sufficient.

Broadcast the indicated amount of fertilizer over the entire garden plot 1 to 2 weeks before planting. Band the other portion at planting time in 1 or 2 bands each 2 to 3 inches to the side of and 1 to 2 inches below the seed level or plant row.

In addition, during the growing season, it may be necessary to sidedress 2 or 3 times with appropriate fertilizer at half the banded rate shown in the table. On mineral soils, a grade such as 15-0-15 may also be used for side-dressing at a rate of ½ to 1 oz. per 10 ft. of row. Sidedress just beyond the outside leaves.

If a different fertilization recommendation accompanies your soil test, use those specific recommendations rather than the general ones given here.

Table 1. Fertilizer Recommendations