Mid-summer is the perfect time to give your plants a nutritional boost. July fertilizing helps maintain strong growth, vibrant blooms, and a bountiful harvest—if done right.

1. Know What to Feed Different plants have different nutrient needs in July:

• Annual Flowers & Vegetables: Use a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) or one with slightly more phosphorus to encourage blooms and fruit.
• Container Plants: These lose nutrients faster. Fertilize every 2–3 weeks with a water-soluble or slow-release formula.
• Herbs: Go light! Basil, thyme, and oregano prefer lean soil to maintain flavor intensity.

2. Read the Label Whether using granular or liquid fertilizer, follow label instructions closely to avoid overfeeding, which can burn plants or promote excess foliage with fewer flowers or fruit.

3. Time It Right Apply fertilizer in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation and plant stress. Water thoroughly before and after applying granular products.

4. Simple Organic Options Organic fertilizers are great for improving soil health while feeding your plants. Here are a few easy DIY options:

• Crushed Eggshells: Rich in calcium—great for tomatoes and peppers. Dry, crush, and sprinkle around plants.
• Used Coffee Grounds: Adds nitrogen and improves soil texture. Sprinkle lightly or mix into compost.
• Banana Peels: High in potassium—chop and bury in soil or blend with water for a natural boost.
• Grass Clippings: Dry slightly and use as mulch around vegetables for nitrogen and moisture retention.
• Rice Water: Use the water from rinsing rice to lightly feed houseplants and leafy greens.

Tip: These natural fertilizers are gentle, cost-effective, and easy to incorporate into your routine.

5. Consider a Soil Test If you’re unsure what your plants need, a soil test can guide your fertilizing strategy. Testing every couple of years helps keep your garden balanced and productive.

6. Avoid These Mistakes

• Don’t fertilize drought-stressed plants—they’ll absorb nutrients poorly.
• Avoid applying fertilizer right before heavy rain—it can wash away.
• Don’t fertilize new transplants heavily; wait a few weeks for roots to establish.

Let’s Get Growing Thomas Greenhouse & Gardens has fertilizers tailored for every plant type—from edibles to ornamentals. Visit us for advice on choosing the best formula for your July garden.

Feed wisely and watch your garden flourish!

Ready to Grow Smarter This July?
This article is part of our Thomas Greenhouse & Gardens July Gardening Series designed to help you keep your garden thriving all summer long. We invite you to explore the entire series:

• Identifying Common Garden Pests
• Pruning and Deadheading for a Healthier Garden
• Weather-Proofing Your Garden for July Extremes
• Smart Summer Watering Techniques
• Fertilizing Your Garden in July
• Monitoring and Journaling Your Garden in July

✨ Click here to read all articles in the series and keep your garden healthy, productive, and beautiful all season long.

Have questions or need help with your garden? Visit Thomas Greenhouse & Gardens for expert advice, quality tools, and locally grown plants that flourish in southeastern Wisconsin.