One application of Miracle-Gro Rose & Shrub Continuous Release Plant Food in early spring feeds for the whole growing season, removing the need for regular feeding. Can also be used in the planting hole with new plants. A special coating on the granules controls the release of plant food, so that it matches the plants needs. It only releases nutrients when conditions are right for plant growth and when the plants need them. This ensures that plants are not short of balanced nutrients for up to 6 months from just 1 application. The granules contain a special mix of nutrients with extra magnesium to give strong, healthy plants with deep, rich coloured blooms. This release ensures steady, even growth, not uneven surges, which is far better for producing strong, sturdy, healthy plants that perform much better in the garden. The release rate is controlled by soil temperature. The warmer it gets, the faster plants grow and the more nutrients are released. This also ensures there is little risk of under- and overfeeding and wastage due to excessive leaching out of the soil or compost, something that can be common with un-coated solid feeds, especially in very wet or waterlogged conditions.