Expert: Mike Mascio - 7/7/2009

Question
We have just moved and there is a very large snow ball bush in our yard. It is just full of blooms and they have been green for about a month. Very little white has come on the bloom. What is wrong with this plant. It is July 6th and we live in Kentucky

Answer
Connie, if there are blooms, there is nothing wrong with the plant. It most likely is a nutrient deficiency in the soil. I would spray the plant with a water-soluble fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. This is represented by the middle number on the label, and it will promote vibrant colors and more abundant blooming. Avoid fertilizers with a high concentration of nitrogen (the first of the three numbers) since this will stimulate more green growth and lush foliage at the expense of blooming. Miracle-Gro and Peters sell a product with a nutrient ratio of 15-30-15, which is formulated and labeled for flowering plants. I've attached a link for your convenience.

http://www.thefind.com/garden/browse-miracle-gro-bloom-booster

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike