By Jeanne Yeoman, Nebraska Extension Master Gardener
Fertilizing plants in hot weather may seem like a good idea, but it may cause more harm than good.
Heat-stressed plants should never be fertilized. When temperatures are hot, plant processes slow down, and fertilizing can promote new growth that the plant can’t support when it is stressed.
Woody plants and shrubs should not be fertilized in August because this will encourage new growth that will not have time to harden off before winter.
Plants in containers can be fertilized but apply lightly (read the label) and be sure to water before and after applying or use a water-soluble formula.
Before applying any fertilizer, be sure that your plants need it. Applying too much unneeded fertilizer can result in nutrient imbalances and damage plants.