Fertilizing:

• What types of fertilizer are on the market?
  Include lime, gypsum, phosphates, iron, manganese, zinc and all other trace elements you will find in your own complete vitamins. Fertilizers which include trace elements will be better for your plants.
  
  
• When to fertilize the lawn?
  Warm season grass should be fertilized when the grass first starts greening and again about mid summer. Cool Season grasses should be fertilized in late September, December and February. Application of a slow release fertilizer will allow you to apply more while feeding your grass longer.Shrub Fertilizing. Fertilize shrubs twice a year, like you would a warm season lawn. Do not allow fertilizer to sit on damp foliage as it will burn the leaves. Some shrubs (like Azaleas) will benefit from a light fall application to retain foliage and improved color during the winter.
  
  
• Do I need a special fertilizer for my azaleas?
  Most likely not. The soil in the upstate of South Carolina is generally sufficiently acid not to warrant spending the extra money on specially formulated fertilizers.Warning. High nitrogen fertilizers (the first number on the formulation, e.g. 26-4-8) will promote top growth and deeper colors. Balanced growth between roots and crown will provide a healthier plant.
  
  
• What about lawn fertilizer companies?
  There are different views on this, but some of these companies have developed a bad reputation in our industry. Be careful what you sign up for.