Though fertilizing is not a difficult process, some gardeners tend to be intimidated at the thought of it. Here are a few pointers that will help you get the job done.

STARTING OUT

Keep it Simple
My motto is the simpler the better. Don't overuse your fertilizer! Also, get yourself on a good fertilizing schedule and stick to it.

Go Organic
Using organic fertilizers in a home garden is a good thing to consider. Gardeners should be wary of chemicals, especially around children and pets.

FERTILIZING ROSES
It's good to fertilize your roses at least twice a season, once before they bloom in the spring and again before the fall blooming period. Some rose experts believe in a third application in June or July.

I use a product called Roses Alive -- an organic plant food easy to find in your local garden center. It contains a high level of phosphorus, which helps the plant to develop healthy roots, big blooms and a resistance to disease. Other ingredients in the mixture are total nitrogen and soluble potash.

I sprinkle one and a half to two cups of Roses Alive in a circle around the perimeter of the rose bush and work it into the soil with a tool. Mulching afterwards helps to preserve the nutrients.