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Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth Flowering Shrubs Fertilizer
Product Overview
Description
Wicked Growth Flowering Shrub Fertilizer delivers bloom-boosting nutrition specifically balanced for ornamental shrubs that flower seasonally. The 8-12-10 formula emphasizes phosphorus for maximum flower production while providing adequate nitrogen for foliage and potassium for winter hardiness.
Flowering shrubs require different nutrition than trees or perennial flowers. They need moderate nitrogen to maintain healthy foliage without excessive growth that delays flowering, elevated phosphorus for abundant bloom production, and balanced potassium for winter survival.
This formula supports the spectacular displays of hydrangeas, the pollinator value of butterfly bushes, the spring color of forsythia and lilac, and the fragrance of gardenia.
Highlights
• Bloom-focused P emphasis
• Balanced for shrub needs
• Supports seasonal flowering
• Winter hardiness enhancement
• All flowering shrub types
The Science Behind It
How It Works
This bloom-boosting formula addresses the specific needs of flowering shrubs that must balance structural growth with flower production. Moderate nitrogen (8%) maintains healthy foliage without excessive vegetative growth. Elevated phosphorus (12%) drives flower bud formation and abundant blooms. Balanced potassium (10%) strengthens branches to support heavy flower loads and improves stress tolerance. Applied in spring and after flowering, this formula supports both current blooms and next year's flower buds.
The Science
Flowering shrubs form flower buds on different wood depending on species—some on new growth, others on previous year's wood. The 8-12-10 ratio supports both patterns by providing balanced nutrition. Phosphorus is critical for flower bud differentiation, the process where vegetative meristems switch to reproductive development. Lower nitrogen prevents the excessive vegetative growth that can suppress flowering in some species. Potassium supports the lignification of woody tissue that overwinters flower buds.
Nutrients Available
8% Total Nitrogen – Supports foliage health without suppressing flowering. 12% Available Phosphate (P₂O₅) – Drives flower bud formation and bloom production. 10% Soluble Potash (K₂O) – Strengthens branches, improves bloom quality, and builds winter hardiness. Ideal for hydrangeas, lilacs, azaleas, rhododendrons, and all flowering shrubs.
How to Apply
1-2 lbs/100 sq ft every 4-6 weeks. Severe deficiency: 2-3 lbs initially.
1
Action:
Survey garden bed and note deficiency symptoms. Map high-need zones.
Pro Tip:
Sandy areas and fruiting sections need more K than shaded areas.
Avoid:
Don't leave granules on surface in hot weather - damages plants.
2
Action:
Calculate 1-2 lbs per 100 sq ft. For 10x20 garden (200 sq ft), use 2-4 lbs.
Pro Tip:
Weigh fertilizer on kitchen scale. One cup 0-0-60 weighs ~0.5 lb.
Avoid:
Don't exceed 2 lbs per 100 sq ft per application. Split heavy doses.
3
Action
Broadcast granules evenly across soil surface. Work into top 2-3 inches with cultivator.
Pro Tip:
Sandy areas and fruiting sections need more K than shaded areas.
Avoid:
Don't spread on windy days - granules drift causing uneven application.
4
Action
Water thoroughly with 1-2 inches to dissolve granules and move K into root zone.
Pro Tip:
Incorporation prevents salt buildup and gets K to roots faster.
Avoid:
Don't leave granules on surface in hot weather - damages plants.