From our perspective, our nutritional needs are intrinsically tied to our growth cycle. We are herbaceous perennials, meaning our foliage dies back to the ground each winter, and we re-emerge from our underground rhizomes (often called "eyes") in the spring. Our primary growth spurts occur in the cool, moist periods of early spring and again in the early fall. During these times, our root systems are most active and efficient at absorbing water and nutrients from the soil. Fertilizing outside of these active growth windows is largely ineffective, as our systems are either dormant or conserving energy in the summer heat.
The most crucial time to feed us is as we break dormancy. This typically occurs when our "noses" – the pointed tips of the emerging shoots – first pierce the soil's surface. In most regions of the United States, this happens from late March through early May. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied at this time provides the essential nutrients—particularly nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K)—needed to support the rapid development of our large, often variegated leaves. This initial nutrient boost is vital for building strong, healthy foliage that can effectively photosynthesize throughout the growing season.
While the spring feeding supports our foliage, a second, lighter application of fertilizer in early fall (late August to early September, before the first frost) is immensely beneficial for our root system. As the air temperatures cool, our top growth slows, but our roots experience a renewed period of activity. This fall feeding does not go toward producing new leaves but is instead channeled downward to strengthen our rhizomes and store energy reserves. This stored energy is what we will use to survive the winter and fuel that initial explosive growth the following spring, making it a critical investment in our long-term health and vigor.
We are not heavy feeders, but we appreciate consistent, gentle nutrition. A balanced, slow-release or controlled-release granular fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 formula, is ideal. The "slow-release" mechanism is key, as it provides a steady, gradual supply of nutrients over many weeks, mirroring our natural uptake patterns and preventing the root burn that can occur with quick-release synthetic fertilizers. Alternatively, amending the soil around us with well-composted organic matter like compost, manure, or leaf mold provides a superb, gentle source of nutrients while also improving soil structure and moisture retention.
Our emergence and growth rates are dictated by local climate conditions. In warmer USDA zones (7-9), our spring growth may begin significantly earlier, sometimes in late February or March. Therefore, fertilization should be timed accordingly. In cooler northern zones (3-5), spring arrives later, so hold off fertilizing until the ground has fully thawed and our shoots are clearly visible. In regions with very hot summers, like the Southeast, we appreciate the fall feeding most, as it helps us recover from the stress of the summer heat. Always ensure we are well-watered before and after any fertilizer application to help transport nutrients and prevent stress.
