Staking and Fertilizing Perennials for Strong, Beautiful Growth

Even in healthy soil with sturdy stems, some perennials—Delphinium, Digitalis, Thalictrum—need staking to prevent flopping in wind or storms.

Fertilizer Basics

Fertilizer supplies essential mineral nutrients via the soil. Deficiencies show as yellow leaves, floppy stems, or brown leaf margins. The three major elements are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Minor elements: calcium, magnesium, sulfur. Eight trace elements are needed in tiny amounts.

Most commercial fertilizers contain only N‑P‑K with inert filler. The label numbers indicate percentage by weight: 10‑10‑10 = 10% each; 5‑10‑5 = 5% N, 10% P, 5% K.

Choosing the right fertilizer is tricky—deficiency symptoms mimic diseases. Excess nitrogen boosts foliage but inhibits flowers. Don’t apply haphazardly.

Best Practice

For a new garden, have your soil tested by the county extension service and follow their recommendations. Once essential nutrients are incorporated, maintain fertility by adding generous organic matter (compost) as mulch and side‑dressings throughout the season.