Can I Use Miracle-Gro on My Strawberry Plants?

Shake n' Feed

• Shake n' Feed is a slow-release product that feeds plants for up to three months. In addition to nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, it contains calcium, which builds strong fruit walls for high-quality berries. Sprinkle 4 1/2 tbsp. fertilizer directly onto the soil for each 4 square feet of planting. Water the plants well after fertilizing. Add 1 to 2 tbsp. fertilizer to containers, depending on the size of the pot and the volume of the soil.

Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food

• Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food dissolves in water to give an instant burst of nutrients to young plants. Fertilize strawberry plants immediately after planting to encourage good root formation and strong growth, according to Ron Smith of the North Dakota State University Extension. Mix 1 tbsp. fertilizer with 1 gallon water in a watering can. Use 1 gallon water for every 10 square feet of strawberry plants. Mix 1/2 tsp. fertilizer with 1 gallon of water for container plants. Nutrients leach quickly out of containers, so feed these plants every two to three weeks.

Organic Choice All Purpose Fertilizer

• Organic Choice All Purpose fertilizer is an organic product that continuously feeds strawberries for up to two months. Sprinkle the fertilizer directly on the soil, according to package directions after planting the strawberries. Fertilize the strawberries again in the fall after the last harvest to promote strong root formation necessary for the following year's crop.

Considerations

• Follow all package directions carefully. Too much fertilizer can damage strawberry plants or encourage lush foliage at the expense of berry production. Base fertilizer applications on the results of a soil test. If you amend the soil with rotted manure or compost, you'll probably need less fertilizer.