How to: Poinsettia Care Guide

What is N-P-K? When you see numbers like 10-10-10 or 12-6-6 on a fertilizer bag, you’re looking at its N-P-K value. These three numbers tell you what nutrients the fertilizer provides—and what those nutrients help plants do. Think of N-P-K as a plant’s diet : N = Nitrogen (Leaf & Green Growth) Helps plants grow lush, green leaves Essential for lawns, evergreens, and leafy plants Too little = pale or yellow leaves Too much = lots of leaves, fewer flowers P = Phosphorus (Roots, Flowers & Blooms) Encourages strong roots Supports flowering, blooming, and fruiting Especially important for newly planted trees, shrubs, and flowers K = Potassium (Overall Health & Strength) Improves overall plant health Helps plants handle heat, cold, drought, and disease Think of this as a plant’s immune system What Do the Numbers Mean? Example: 10-10-10 10% Nitrogen 10% Phosphorus 10% Potassium A balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) feeds the whole plant evenly, while a targeted fertilizer boosts a specific need (like blooms or root growth). Choosing the Right Fertilizer New plants? Look for higher phosphorus to help roots establish Leafy growth or evergreens? Nitrogen is key Flowering plants or stressed plants? Potassium helps keep them strong  If you’re ever unsure, our team can help match the right NPK to your plant and the time of year.

After You Buy a Tree: What to Do Next Trees are a long-term investment. Proper handling, planting, and care during the first year determines long-term success. 1. Transporting Your Tree Safely • Trees should be laid flat during transport. Transporting trees upright exposes them to damaging wind. • Wind speeds over 15 mph can damage foliage and break branches. • During the growing season, loosely wrap the canopy with a light sheet or cloth. Wrapping is generally unnecessary when trees are dormant. • Protect the trunk from rubbing on the tailgate or vehicle using cardboard, towels, or blankets. • Avoid laying evergreens directly on a hot truck bed. Use cardboard or cloth as a barrier to prevent foliage burn. 2. Plant As Soon As Possible • Trees can be planted any time the ground is not frozen. • If planting is delayed, keep the root ball moist and store the tree in a shaded, wind-protected area. • Do not leave trees in vehicles or on hot pavement.

Tulips are one of the most rewarding flowers you can grow — vibrant colors, easy care, and beautiful spring displays. Follow these simple steps to plant your bulbs this fall and enjoy a stunning show next spring. When to Plant Plant tulip bulbs in fall — usually late September through early November in Arkansas. You want soil temperatures to cool down below 60°F before planting. What You’ll Need Tulip bulbs (choose firm, healthy ones) Garden trowel or bulb planter Bone & blood meal (Hi-Yield or similar) Compost or well-draining garden soil Mulch (pine bark, straw, or shredded leaves) Watering can or hose Step-by-Step Instructions Step 1: Choose the Right Spot Tulips thrive in full sun — at least 6 hours per day — and well-drained soil . Avoid areas where water pools after rain. Step 2: Prepare the Soil Loosen the soil about 8 inches deep where you plan to plant. Mix in 1–2 inches of compost across the surface and work it into the top 6–8 inches of soil. This improves drainage and gives your bulbs a healthy growing environment. Next, sprinkle Bone & Blood Meal into the area — about 1 tablespoon per bulb hole . Lightly mix it into the loosened soil (don’t let the bulb sit directly on top of the fertilizer). Good soil prep is key — it helps bulbs form strong roots before winter. Step 3: Plant the Bulbs Dig each hole about 6–8 inches deep and 4–6 inches apart . Place the bulb pointed end up and flat end down on the loosened, fertilized soil. Backfill the hole with the amended soil and gently firm it down — just enough to remove air pockets, not pack it tight. Step 4: Water Thoroughly After planting, water deeply once to settle the soil. You won’t need to water again unless the weather is unusually dry. Step 5: Add Mulch When the soil cools (usually late October), spread 2–3 inches of mulch over the bed. This keeps soil temperatures stable and prevents early sprouting during winter warm spells. Spring Care When tulip shoots appear in February or March , apply a top dressing of bulb fertilizer such as: Hi-Yield Dutch Bulb Food (7-8-5) Or a general 5-10-10 garden fertilizer Lightly scratch it into the soil and water. After flowering, remove faded blooms but leave the green leaves until they yellow — this allows the bulb to recharge for next year. Pro Tip If your tulips are in a rainy area or heavy clay soil, consider planting them in raised beds or adding sand to improve drainage — soggy bulbs can rot. Enjoy the Show! With the right soil, a little fertilizer, and some patience, your tulips will reward you with bright, cheerful blooms every spring.