Controlled release fertiliser are tiny granules called prills that are packed with food for plants which they release gradually over a long length of time. They are really useful when gardening because they can be applied to a pot or a garden and feed the plants for between 3 and 6 months.
A prill of controlled release fertiliser has a shell around it which gradually breaks down when it touches the water in soil. As it does this, it gradually releases the fertiliser inside. It is sometimes called slow release fertiliser as well.
A plant only needs about a tablespoon of controlled release fertiliser sprinkled onto the soil around it. It should always be watered after applying it to the plant.
SMARTY TIP: After applying controlled release fertiliser to a pot or the garden, write it on the calendar so that you remember when you need to reapply it.