As to the fertilizing.....IMHO, the best thing to do is get a soil test....then add the "needed" amount ! And, I believe the best way to add it is in "small doses", NOT all at once ! I split mine into two doses....the first as soon as new growth starts, and the second when spring bloom is done. In my case......I remove a lot of "biomass" from my beds, every year....spent leaves, stalks, and all the cut-off fans (in the fall), so I'm removing a lot of potential humus from the beds, as well as a lot of nutrients.....and all that needs "added back".
