Water lily fertilizer tabs that dont crumble?

[Linda W]

The Pondtabs I bought crumble before I can push them into the lily and lotus pots. It’s getting worse as the water gets warmer and the roots more compact. I heard a rumor of tabs coated with a plant-based film that dissolved *after* being wet for a short period. I’d appreciate suggestions for brands or a better technique. Including a photo of happy Zephyranthes as thanks.
The ponds have frogs plus visiting dragonflies, birds, and other wildlife but not fish.

 

[snoozer]

I use AgSafe Aquatic Tabs and they don't crumble that easily. It helps to poke a hole the same diameter as the tab so you don't break your finger pushing through the roots. My son made this for me years ago to make the hole. I would think that sharpening a 1/2 inch wood dowel would work too.

 

[Lisak1]

I share your frustration. I use an old wooden spoon handle to accomplish what @snoozer 's tool does. Make a hole first and then drop the tab in.

A far better approach is one time fertilizing in the spring when you divide and re-pot. A sprinkling of Osmocote in the bottom of the pot mixed into the potting media works all season long.

 

[addy1]

A far better approach is one time fertilizing in the spring when you divide and re-pot. A sprinkling of Osmocote in the bottom of the pot mixed into the potting media works all season long.

I add osmocote in the fall and don't add any other fertilizer for the rest of the season, seems to work well. You can also put some osmocote in a piece of paper towel and shove it in.

 

[EricV]

I add osmocote in the fall and don't add any other fertilizer for the rest of the season, seems to work well. You can also put some osmocote in a piece of paper towel and shove it in.

Same idea, but I use coffee filters. I never find them when I repot.