Question
After fertilizing two shrubs, one a Niko Blue Hydrangea, and the other a PJM Rhododendrum, with Miracle Gro's fertilizer for Acid loving plants, all the leaves (and flowers) died. According to the box, I was to spray the leaves and then around the roots. (I used the type of fertilizer you attach to the garden hose.) The box didn't say you shouldn't do this in hot weather. I did fertilize in the heat--ninty degree temps. Do you think I killed the plants, or just the foliage? If just the foliage, is there anything I can do at this point to help the plants regenerate?
Thanks!

Answer
never use liquid fertilizers when the temps are above 80 (on a lawn or other plants). try granular hollytone by espoma once in the spring & again in the fall. the rain will put it where it belongs. 1-2 coffee cupfulls per plant should suffice. use liquid fertilizers mixed w/water for container plants. keep it off the foliage. foliage feeding is for quick greenup. experienced gardeners even have trouble w/foliage fertilizers. water the plants every 5-7 days until they put off new growth. water only in the AM on sunny days. don't water if it rains.