Osmocote is a slow-release plant food. The temperature of the soil determines when the nutrients are released. It can be scattered on top of the soil and then scratched gently into the top inch of the soil so it will experience the soil's temperature. It is also fine to use it when planting by placing it in the planting hole. The key is to place it where the roots can get the nutrition from it as it dissolves. Nutrients are released whenever the soil's temperature is 40 - 45 degrees. The product will feed for 4 to 6 months (depending on the formula) and it won't burn the plants even if it touches the roots directly. A semi-permeable membrane encapsulates the nutrients and controls the release. Most plants in the northern hemisphere stay or become active when the soil temperature is 45 degrees or higher. The release of Osmocote's nutrients mimics the way Mother Nature controls the plant. Encapsulation of the Osmocote nutrients keeps excess nitrogen out of the groundwater since it works with the plant's active cycle. Pretty clever, actually. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti