@funcountess Here is the general rule of thumb about fertilizing and watering. I moved it from the walking group because it fits better here.

Annuals - often - twice as often as the package label says, but at half the strength. Pots about every two weeks (again half strength) as watering washes a lot of nutrients out of the pots.
Perennials - once a year - maybe twice if they grow 12 months in a warm climate (not all do - some have a dormant period even in south Texas)
Natives - once - about 6 months to one year after planting. Then let nature take its course.
Trees and shrubs - once a year in cold climates, twice a year in zones 8-10. Never while dormant.
Lawns - twice a year at most, Fall in the north, spring and fall in the south, if you drop grass clippings they decompose and help protect the roots and feed the soil. If you bag, add one more time of fertilizer.
That's it! It's all the plants need, any excess washes away into the ground water or surface water - where it is a source of pollution.

And water:
Use irrigation system, soaker hoses, or sprinklers - hand watering may be entertaining for a gardener, but is seldom good enough for plants, other than pots, or for watering in new plantings.
Tip - put a tuna or cat food can in the area you are watering and measure the depth to be sure you are delivering enough water. The time required will vary greatly depending on what type device you are using & area you are covering. To measure what the "soaker" is delivering, bury a can to its rim under the soaker hose so you can see how much is being deposited.
Established plants - One half to one inch per week for most plantings - delivered in one or two doses so it really soaks in and forces the roots deep to seek moisture - makes them more resilient and drought resistant. Reduce watering when it rains, to equal this amount.
New plantings, more until established - that is new grass - new grass daily until after second mowing, then regular schedule.
New trees and shrubs - 1 1/2 inches per week first year. Then shrubs as normal, continue extra water on trees for 2-3 years.
Perennials and natives - as needed (beginning to wilt) - until established, then late nature take over as much as possible.
The exception - fruits and vegetables - depends on plant, but consistency is key - read up on anything you plant, and water according to what it is.

These are the guidelines from the University of Minnesota Extension Service and Texas A&M. We Master Gardeners teach this to thousands of people every year. Doing it right saves money, water & the environment.
Getting off my soapbox now!
Sue

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