Controlled-Release Fertilizer in Containerized Native Perennials

The production of bedding plants and herbaceous perennials was in excess of $775 million nationally in 2019 (USDA, NASS Quick Stas). Fertilizers are an essential component in the plant production process. Yet consumers or end-users may misapply or use fertilizers in excess, leading to environmental degradation, in their attempt to establish plants in the home landscape. This study was to determine optimal concentrations and release rates of controlled-release fertilizers to produce marketable plants and enhance landscape establishment with residual fertility of three native species: New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae), false indigo (Baptisia australis), and little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium). This is the last year of an establishment field-trial following a parallel greenhouse production study.