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What Is Osmocote Fertilizer and How Does It Work?

UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions

Osmocote is a controlled-release fertilizer (14-14-14 or 15-9-12) with resin-coated granules that release nutrients gradually based on soil temperature. Each granule is a tiny capsule, water enters through the coating, dissolves the nutrients inside, and they slowly diffuse out over 3-6 months. Higher temperatures = faster release. It's nearly impossible to burn plants when used as directed, making it ideal for containers.

What You Need to Know

Osmocote is a controlled-release fertilizer (14-14-14 or 15-9-12) with resin-coated granules that release nutrients gradually based on soil temperature. Each granule is a tiny capsule, water enters through the coating, dissolves the nutrients inside, and they slowly diffuse out over 3-6 months. Higher temperatures = faster release

It's nearly impossible to burn plants when used as directed, making it ideal for containers.

For personalized recommendations based on your specific garden size and fertilizer, use our fertilizer calculator.

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