Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What is the best time to fertilize most landscape plants?

1. In the fall

2. During blooming season

3. In the spring

4. During dormancy

The correct answer is: In the spring

Fertilizing most landscape plants in the spring is optimal because this timing coincides with the natural growth cycle of many plants. During spring, plants are awakening from dormancy and entering their active growth phase. Fertilizing at this time provides essential nutrients that help promote robust growth, improve flowering, and support overall plant health. The nutrients are readily absorbed by the roots as the plant starts to take up water and begin processes necessary for growth, such as photosynthesis. Choosing to fertilize in the fall or during dormancy is less effective, as plants are not actively growing and may not utilize the nutrients effectively. Fertilizing during the blooming season might be beneficial for specific flowering plants, but it is not universally the best choice for all landscape plants, which generally require nutrients earlier in the year to establish and support their growth.