Slow Release Plant Food Granules.

[Bramleyboy]

At garden centres they often have blue/green granules in the soil. I have just returned from Spain and in a garden there, I noticed these same granules. Does anyone know what they are because I'm sure they're brilliant things and they're slow release!!! Many thanks, in anticipation, Bramley.

[sandyRoe]

Are you sure they're not slug pellets?

[hammerman]

Several types, the most widely used are Osmocote which are a golden brown colour. Ficote is also used (grey) and i'm sure there are other non branded ones around.

Pretty much all garden centres should sell them

[Tilly2]

I have a tub of red and beige slow release granules that I put in my rhododendron and hydrangea tubs.

[Chipchopper]

As far as I know, slug pellets are usually blue in color, so Sandy may well be right.
I just checked on my 'Miricle-Gro' jar (I suspecta there are many other makes) and most of the granules are pale yellow and a smaller proportion of green ones.
hope that was helpful.

[Bramleyboy]

I'll go with slug pellets! Osmocote was recommended and as you say it's not blue! Many thanks, Bramley

[hammerman]

Would garden centres be allowed to use slug pellets under COSHH or even general health and safety rules....they're not the nicest things around especially if you have kids and dogs wondering around???

[Robinia]

I doubt plants would be sold with added slug pellets too. A search of Google images gave these results
http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=slow+release+blue+granules&;hl=en-GB&bih=800&tbm=isch&ei=nQYVVY2VA8XXar2egIAJ&start=0&sa=N