10 Best Fertilizers for Ferns in 2026

You’ll want fertilizers tailored for ferns that promote lush growth and strong roots, like Jobe’s Plant Food Fertilizer Spikes or Fern Fertilizer Liquid Plant Food. These options are among the best fertilizers for ferns, available in both organic and synthetic formulas to suit your preference.

Slow-release spikes and balanced liquid formulas help feed your ferns consistently without overdoing it. This ensures steady nutrient delivery, which is essential for healthy fern development.

Consider your fern’s location and growth stage when choosing nutrients to avoid damage.

With these top picks, your ferns will thrive—and there’s plenty more to explore for ideal care.

Jobe’s Plant Food Fertilizer Spikes, 30 Count

Jobe’s Plant Food Fertilizer Spikes offer a simple solution for keeping your ferns and palms healthy without the hassle of measuring or mixing fertilizers. These pre-measured spikes deliver nutrients directly to the roots, ensuring efficient absorption and reducing waste. Their design helps prevent over-fertilization, which can damage plants or cause nutrient runoff.

Maintenance is straightforward—just insert a spike into the soil every 60 days. This schedule provides consistent feeding without the mess or odor associated with liquid fertilizers. The spikes’ slow-release formula supports strong root development and vibrant foliage, promoting lush indoor plants with minimal effort.

Ideal for indoor gardeners, these fertilizer spikes are especially suited for ferns and palms, which benefit from the balanced 16-2-6 NPK ratio. While they simplify plant care, the spikes are best for medium to small plants, as each weighs about 0.04 kg and may not cover larger areas effectively.

Overall, Jobe’s spikes provide a clean, convenient way to nourish your plants regularly. Their no-mess application and root-targeted nutrient delivery make them a practical choice for maintaining healthy, vigorous indoor greenery.

Best for: Indoor plant owners seeking an easy, mess-free fertilizer option for ferns and palms.

What We Like:

• Pre-measured spikes prevent overfeeding and simplify care
• Balanced 16-2-6 NPK ratio supports healthy growth and foliage
• Slow-release formula reduces nutrient runoff and odor
• Easy application every 60 days keeps maintenance low

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Jobe’s
Count	30 spikes
Weight per spike	0.04 kg
NPK Ratio	16-2-6
Application	Insert into soil every 60 days

Fern Fertilizer Liquid Plant Food, 8 oz

Fern Fertilizer Liquid Plant Food offers a simple solution for nurturing vibrant, healthy ferns both indoors and outdoors. Its carefully balanced liquid formula delivers nutrients quickly, helping your ferns absorb what they need without delay. This ensures your plants develop lush, green leaves and fuller fronds with less waiting time.

Maintaining your ferns becomes easier with this product. Mixing just one teaspoon per quart of water allows for straightforward application, encouraging strong root growth and consistent plant health. It is especially effective for Boston ferns, promoting robust development and vitality.

Designed specifically for ferns, this liquid plant food adapts well to various settings such as houseplants, hanging baskets, and garden beds. Its concentrated 8 oz size is convenient for smaller collections and precise feeding schedules. However, larger fern collections might require more frequent purchases.

Made in the USA by TPS Nutrients, this fertilizer is trusted for its dependable results. While it requires careful mixing, its targeted formula supports fern-specific needs better than general fertilizers. This product is ideal if you want to maintain thriving ferns with minimal effort and clear results.

Best for: Gardeners and plant enthusiasts seeking an easy-to-use liquid fertilizer to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage in both indoor and outdoor ferns.

What We Like:

• Fast nutrient absorption with a liquid formula
• Encourages lush foliage and fuller fronds
• Supports strong root development, especially in Boston ferns
• Simple mixing ratio for easy application
• Made in the USA with consistent quality

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	TPS Nutrients
Volume	8 oz (237 ml)
Intended Use	Indoor and outdoor ferns
Application	1 tsp per quart of water
Origin	Made in the USA

16oz Fern Fertilizer for Indoor Fern Plants

Bring your indoor ferns back to life with the 16oz Fern Fertilizer, designed to provide steady and nutrient-rich care. This fertilizer solves the common problem of weak, dull fronds by delivering essential nutrients that promote vibrant, healthy growth. It transforms up to 32 gallons of water into a nourishing liquid feed that strengthens roots and thickens foliage.

Using the fertilizer is straightforward and fits easily into your plant care routine. Simply mix ½ capful per quart of water and apply every 1-2 weeks. This regular feeding helps your Boston, Maidenhair, Staghorn, Bird’s Nest, and other ferns maintain lush, resilient growth even in indoor environments.

Unlike generic fertilizers, this formula is specifically tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of ferns. It contains a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and minerals like calcium and iron, which work together to support root development and vibrant fronds. This targeted approach ensures your ferns thrive rather than just survive.

While liquid form requires careful handling to avoid spills, the hands-on application lets you monitor your plants’ health closely. The need for frequent mixing might not suit everyone but provides flexibility for precise nutrient control.

Best for: Indoor fern enthusiasts seeking an easy-to-use, nutrient-rich fertilizer to promote vibrant, healthy, and resilient fern growth.

What We Like:

• Produces 32 gallons of liquid fertilizer, offering long-lasting nourishment.
• Balanced nutrients support strong roots and dense, vibrant foliage.
• Easy, clear instructions for regular application.
• Tailored formula ideal for various indoor fern types.

Specification:

Manufacturer	N/A
Volume	16 oz (473 ml)
Coverage	32 gallons
Application	Liquid, mix ½ capful per quart of water
Suitable For	Indoor ferns (Boston, Maidenhair, Staghorn, Bird’s Nest)

Boston Fern Liquid Fertilizer Plant Food 8 oz

Boston Fern Liquid Fertilizer Plant Food is designed to bring out the best in your Boston ferns. If your ferns struggle with dull or sparse fronds, this formula can help encourage vibrant, fuller growth. It delivers essential nutrients that support dense, healthy foliage, making your ferns look lush and well-nourished.

This liquid plant food is easy to incorporate into your regular care routine. Whether your ferns grow in hanging baskets, containers, or garden beds, the fertilizer promotes steady development and enhances overall plant vitality. Its simple mixing instructions make maintenance straightforward, saving you time and effort.

Made in the USA, this product focuses specifically on the needs of Boston ferns. It provides the right balance to maintain energy and encourage attractive frond growth. Regular application is necessary to sustain these results, which ensures your plants stay in top condition throughout the year.

While the 8 oz size is convenient for small collections, larger fern owners might find themselves replenishing it frequently. Also, its specialized formula means it is less effective for other plant types, so it’s best used exclusively for ferns.

Best for: fern enthusiasts wanting to maintain healthy, vibrant Boston ferns indoors or outdoors with minimal hassle.

What We Like:

• Supports lush, dense green foliage and steady growth
• Suitable for various growing environments like baskets and garden beds
• Simple to mix and apply, fitting easily into plant care routines
• Made in the USA with a formula tailored to Boston ferns

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Not specified
Volume	8 oz (237 ml)
Intended Use	Boston ferns
Application Type	Liquid fertilizer
Origin	Made in the USA

Fern Fertilizer Liquid Plant Food, Organic Formula

Fern Fertilizer Liquid Plant Food offers a natural way to keep your ferns thriving indoors and outdoors. This organic formula supports healthy, vibrant foliage and strong root systems by providing essential nutrients through a concentrated blend. It addresses common fern care challenges like poor soil health and nutrient uptake, helping your plants grow lush and resilient.

Designed for ease of use, this liquid plant food requires a simple 1:400 dilution. Its mild scent and chemical-free composition make it safe for regular application without the risk of over-fertilization. The formula includes over 200 million live beneficial bacteria per milliliter, which improve soil vitality and nutrient absorption naturally, enhancing overall fern health.

The product’s long two-year shelf life ensures you can maintain your fern care routine without frequent repurchases. While it is specifically tailored for ferns and may not suit other plants as effectively, it excels at promoting greener leaves and stronger stems. Proper dilution is important for best results, so it’s ideal for users familiar with liquid fertilizers.

With its balanced organic nutrients and beneficial microbes, this liquid fertilizer supports sustainable fern growth year-round. It helps you maintain healthier, more vibrant plants with less effort, making fern care more manageable and rewarding.

Best for: Gardeners and fern enthusiasts seeking an organic, easy-to-use liquid fertilizer for healthier, lush indoor and outdoor ferns.

What We Like:

• Contains over 200 million live beneficial bacteria per milliliter to boost soil health naturally
• Simple 1:400 dilution ratio for convenient application
• Chemical-free, organic formula reduces risk of over-fertilization
• Long two-year shelf life for extended use

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Not specified
Volume	300 ml
Formula Type	Organic liquid fertilizer
Key Ingredient	Beneficial bacteria (200 million/mL)
Shelf Life	2 years

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food is designed to keep your ferns healthy and vibrant, whether indoors or outdoors. Its water-soluble formula ensures rapid nutrient delivery, helping your plants absorb essential elements quickly for stronger roots and lush growth. This fertilizer addresses common problems like nutrient deficiencies and slow growth, promoting larger, more vigorous ferns with consistent use.

Maintaining your plants is simple with Miracle-Gro. You mix just the right amount—1/2 teaspoon per gallon of water for indoor ferns and 1-1/2 tablespoons per 1.5 gallons for outdoor ones. Regular applications every two weeks indoors and weekly outside provide steady nourishment without risking root burn. This ease of use makes it ideal for keeping ferns thriving year-round.

The balanced 24-8-16 NPK ratio, enhanced with chelated iron and trace elements, supports overall plant health beyond just ferns. It’s a versatile choice for a wide range of garden plants. The quick absorption means your plants benefit immediately, encouraging vibrant, larger foliage without the wait.

One consideration is the need for frequent reapplication to maintain optimal growth. Also, gardeners seeking organic or slow-release fertilizers might find this product doesn’t meet those specific preferences. For large outdoor gardens, a separate feeder device is necessary, which adds to the overall setup.

Best for: Gardeners and plant enthusiasts looking for an effective, water-soluble fertilizer that promotes healthy growth of indoor and outdoor ferns and other garden plants.

What We Like:

• Balanced 24-8-16 NPK formula with chelated iron for vibrant plant growth
• Quick nutrient absorption supports fast root nourishment
• Simple mixing instructions for both indoor and outdoor use
• Suitable for containers and in-ground gardening
• Promotes lush, larger ferns with consistent feeding

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Miracle-Gro
NPK Ratio	24-8-16
Application Rate	1/2 tsp/gallon (indoor), 1-1/2 tbsp/1.5 gal (outdoor)
Feeding Frequency	Every 2 weeks (indoor), weekly (outdoor)
Form	Water-soluble powder

Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus, 2 lbs

Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus offers an easy, effective way to nourish your ferns without constant attention. This fertilizer provides a steady supply of 11 essential nutrients over six months, reducing the hassle of frequent feedings. Its unique resin coating controls nutrient release, matching your plant’s needs and preventing fertilizer burn.

Designed for low-maintenance care, this 2-pound granular formula works well for both indoor and outdoor ferns. Simply mix about 1.5 tablespoons into the top inch of soil in a 2-gallon pot and water regularly. This method ensures nutrients reach roots efficiently, supporting healthy growth without risk of overfeeding.

The slow-release design also means you won’t have to worry about nutrient spikes or rapid depletion. Covering up to 75 square feet, it’s a practical choice for small to medium garden spaces. While the container size suits typical household gardens, very large areas may require additional supply.

Keep in mind that indoor plants may need slight adjustment in application, and consistent watering is necessary to activate nutrient release. This approach makes Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus a dependable solution for steady, safe feeding with minimal effort.

Best for: Gardeners seeking a long-lasting, low-maintenance fertilizer that nourishes indoor and outdoor ferns safely and effectively.

What We Like:

• Provides up to six months of steady nutrition with 11 essential nutrients
• Unique resin coating releases nutrients only when plants need them
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, covering up to 75 square feet
• Reduces risk of fertilizer burn with controlled nutrient delivery
• Easy to apply and maintain with simple soil mixing and watering

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Osmocote
Weight	2 lbs (0.91 kg)
Nutrients	11 essential elements
Coverage Area	Up to 75 sq ft
Application Rate	1.5 tbsp per 2-gal pot

Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food Fertilizer Spikes (48)

Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food Fertilizer Spikes offer a simple way to keep your indoor plants healthy and vibrant. These spikes deliver continuous nutrition directly to the roots, eliminating the guesswork in feeding your plants. Just insert a spike into the soil and water as usual—no complicated measuring or mixing needed.

Designed for low-maintenance care, each spike feeds your plants for up to two months. This steady release helps promote stronger, greener growth in ferns, houseplants, flowers, vegetables, and herbs. The process is clean and easy, especially when using the Miracle-Aerator tool to insert the spikes without disturbing your plants.

The pack includes 48 spikes, enough to nourish about eight medium-sized pots, making it a convenient option for plant lovers with multiple indoor pots. While these spikes are tailored for indoor use, they are not suited for outdoor gardening or larger containers without adjusting the number of spikes.

One consideration is that the Miracle-Aerator tool is required for proper application, which may be an additional purchase if you don’t already have one. Also, the number of spikes needed varies with pot size, so some users may need to experiment to find the right amount.

Best for: Home gardeners looking for an easy, low-effort way to feed a variety of indoor plants continuously.

What We Like:

• Continuous feeding for up to two months per spike
• Clean, simple application with Miracle-Aerator tool
• Large pack size supports multiple medium pots
• Promotes healthy, vibrant indoor plant growth

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Miracle-Gro
Quantity	48 spikes
Feeding Duration	Up to 2 months per spike
Intended Use	Indoor plants (ferns, herbs, vegetables, flowers)
Application Tool	Miracle-Aerator (sold separately)

Organic Liquid Indoor Plant Food Fertilizer 8oz

Organic Liquid Indoor Plant Food offers a gentle yet effective solution for nurturing your houseplants. Designed to provide balanced nutrition, it helps prevent the common issue of fertilizer burn on delicate indoor plants like ferns. This formula supports steady growth by encouraging lush foliage and strong root development.

The fertilizer contains Ecklonia maxima sea kelp, which naturally promotes root expansion and overall plant health. Its odor-free and eco-friendly composition ensures safety around pets and children, eliminating concerns about harmful chemicals. The liquid concentrate dissolves quickly in water, making feeding your plants simple and convenient.

Maintenance is straightforward with this product. One 8 oz bottle treats up to 50 gallons of water and can be applied daily or on a monthly schedule, depending on your plant’s needs. Its balanced 5-5-5 nutrient ratio supports soil vitality and moisture retention, enhancing your indoor garden’s overall environment.

While perfect for indoor tropical plants, it is not formulated for outdoor use and may require more frequent applications compared to slow-release fertilizers. The smaller bottle size might also mean multiple purchases for larger collections.

Best for: Indoor plant enthusiasts seeking a safe, effective organic fertilizer tailored for delicate houseplants and tropical varieties.

What We Like:

• Balanced 5-5-5 formula promoting healthy roots and foliage
• Contains sea kelp to boost root growth naturally
• Odor-free and safe around pets and children
• Easy to mix and apply with quick nutrient delivery
• Supports soil health and moisture retention

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Not specified
Volume	8 oz (237 ml)
Nutrient Ratio	5-5-5 (N-P-K)
Form	Liquid concentrate
Suitable Plants	Indoor tropical plants, ferns
Safety	Pet and child safe

Nelson Plumeria & Tropical Flower Fertilizer 2 lb

Nelson Plumeria & Tropical Flower Fertilizer 2 lb brings vibrant blooms and healthy foliage to your tropical plants with ease. Designed to address common nutrient deficiencies, this fertilizer encourages strong flower development and lush growth, helping your garden thrive. Its unique formula targets specific needs for tropical flowers, transforming dull plants into colorful focal points.

With an NPK ratio of 5-30-5, it delivers a high phosphate boost that supports abundant flowering. The inclusion of elemental sulfur helps adjust soil acidity, improving nutrient uptake. Micronutrients enrich plant health and color, making it ideal for plumeria, orchids, ferns, and other tropical species.

This granular fertilizer offers both immediate nutrient release and long-term support, ensuring continuous growth and blooming cycles. It works well in containers or garden beds, but careful application and watering are necessary to maximize effectiveness. Its formulation is tailored for tropical plants, which may limit its use in other garden types.

Regular use of Nelson Plumeria & Tropical Flower Fertilizer can simplify plant care by maintaining soil balance and promoting vibrant flowers. However, the lower nitrogen content means it’s less effective for rapid foliage growth compared to other fertilizers. Overall, it provides a specialized solution for tropical flower enthusiasts seeking consistent, colorful results.

Best for: Gardeners and plant enthusiasts looking to enhance flowering tropical and indoor plants with vibrant blooms and lush foliage using a balanced, nutrient-rich fertilizer.

What We Like:

• High phosphate content encourages prolific blooming
• Elemental sulfur and micronutrients improve soil and plant health
• Suitable for diverse tropical and flowering plants in containers or beds
• Granular form offers sustained nutrient release for ongoing growth

Specification:

Attribute	Details
Manufacturer	Nelson
Weight	2 lb
NPK Ratio	5-30-5
Form	Granular
Suitable For	Tropical flowers, ferns, orchids
Key Additives	Elemental sulfur, micronutrients

Factors to Consider When Choosing Fertilizer for Ferns

When choosing fertilizer for your ferns, you’ll want to take into account the nutrient balance and how you plan to apply it. Think about whether your ferns are indoors or outdoors, as this affects the type and frequency of fertilization.

You’ll also need to decide between organic and synthetic options to match your care routine.

Nutrient Composition Balance

Although many fertilizers offer a balanced nutrient profile, choosing the right composition for your ferns is essential to their health. Ferns thrive with an NPK ratio that supports lush, green foliage—typically around 3-1-2 rather than the standard 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. This higher nitrogen content encourages vibrant growth, while balanced phosphorus and potassium maintain root strength and overall resilience.

Don’t overlook micronutrients like iron, manganese, and magnesium; they play a critical role in keeping your ferns healthy and stress-resistant. Using fertilizers with imbalanced nutrients can cause root burn, weak growth, or nutrient runoff, so it’s imperative to pick one that matches your fern’s specific needs. Aim for steady growth and rich color by prioritizing nutrient composition balance in your fertilizer choice.

Application Method Options

Since ferns have varying nutrient needs and growth patterns, choosing the right fertilizer application method can make a big difference. You can opt for liquid fertilizers if your fern needs a quick nutrient boost; they absorb fast through roots and fronds, perfect for frequent feeding.

Fertilizer spikes offer a mess-free, slow-release option, delivering nutrients directly to roots over 2-3 months. Granular fertilizers are great for outdoor ferns or larger pots since you sprinkle them on the soil and water in, providing longer-lasting nourishment.

Slow-release fertilizers, coated to gradually release nutrients, reduce how often you apply feedings and help prevent over-fertilization. Consider your fern’s environment and your feeding routine when selecting the method that best fits your care style.

Indoor Versus Outdoor Use

Choosing the right fertilizer application method plays a significant role, but you also need to take into account whether your fern grows indoors or outdoors. Indoor ferns benefit from fertilizers with balanced or lower nitrogen levels to avoid overgrowth and keep their fronds delicate. These fertilizers are often designed to minimize odors and runoff, ensuring a clean application inside your home.

On the other hand, outdoor ferns require fertilizers with higher nutrient concentrations to encourage robust growth and help them withstand environmental stresses like wind and pests. Outdoor formulas usually include micronutrients for soil enrichment and are made to endure weather conditions. By matching your fertilizer choice to your fern’s environment, you’ll promote healthier, more resilient plants tailored to their unique needs.

Frequency Of Fertilization

How often you fertilize your ferns can make a big difference in their health and appearance. Most ferns thrive when fed every 2 to 4 weeks during their growing season, promoting lush, vibrant foliage. However, avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause salt buildup, harming roots and burning leaves.

Adjust feeding frequency based on your fern’s growth stage—feed more during active growth and less when dormant. If you use liquid fertilizers, you’ll need to apply them more often, while slow-release spikes or granular options require feeding only every 1 to 3 months.

Keep in mind, indoor ferns usually need less frequent fertilization compared to outdoor ones, which might benefit from weekly or bi-weekly feeding during peak growth. Tailor your routine to your fern’s specific needs for the best results.

Organic Versus Synthetic Choices

When you decide on a fertilizer for your ferns, weighing organic versus synthetic options is key to meeting your plant’s needs and your gardening goals. Organic fertilizers come from natural ingredients and microbes, boosting soil health and offering long-term vitality with balanced nutrients and essential micronutrients. They support sustainable, chemical-free fern growth, which is great if you care about the environment.

Synthetic fertilizers deliver concentrated nutrients quickly, giving your ferns an immediate boost. However, they can cause soil degradation and runoff if overused, increasing the risk of over-fertilization. Your choice depends on how much you prioritize environmental impact, how fast your ferns need nutrients, and your preference for sustainable practices.

Both have benefits, so consider these factors carefully to keep your ferns thriving.

Plant Growth Stage Needs

Although ferns need nutrients throughout their lifecycle, their requirements shift considerably as they grow. In the early growth stage, your young ferns benefit most from fertilizers high in nitrogen, like a 16-2-6 ratio, to encourage lush, green frond development.

As your plants mature, they require a more balanced fertilizer or one richer in potassium to boost overall resilience and root strength. During dormancy or slow growth, reduce fertilization frequency and use lower nutrient concentrations to avoid overfeeding.

Selecting fertilizers tailored to each growth phase helps you prevent nutrient deficiencies and stress while promoting vibrant, healthy foliage. By adjusting your feeding routine based on your fern’s stage, you ensure ideal growth and long-term vitality throughout its lifecycle.

Safety For Pets

Why should you prioritize pet safety when choosing fertilizer for your ferns? Because many fertilizers contain chemicals that can be harmful or toxic if your pets ingest or come into contact with them. To keep your furry friends safe, always pick fertilizers labeled as pet-safe or non-toxic.

Organic or natural fertilizers tend to be safer choices compared to synthetic, chemical-based ones. Avoid products with added pesticides or herbicides, as these can pose serious risks. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to limit your pet’s exposure to concentrated nutrients during application.

Also, store fertilizer containers sealed and out of your pet’s reach to prevent accidental ingestion or contact. Taking these precautions helps you nurture healthy ferns without compromising your pets’ well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Water Ferns After Fertilizing?

You should water your ferns lightly right after fertilizing to help nutrients absorb, then keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

Usually, watering every 2-3 days works well, depending on humidity and temperature.

Can Ferns Thrive Without Any Fertilizer?

Yes, your ferns can survive without fertilizer, but they won’t grow as lush or vibrant.

You’ll get better results and healthier plants if you feed them regularly with a balanced, diluted fertilizer during the growing season.

What Are Common Signs of Over-Fertilizing Ferns?

When your fern’s leaves turn brown and crispy, it’s like a warning flag waving. You’ll notice yellowing, wilting, or even stunted growth.

These signs mean you’re over-fertilizing and need to ease up quickly.

Are Homemade Fertilizers Effective for Ferns?

Yes, homemade fertilizers can be effective for ferns if you use balanced ingredients like compost or diluted fish emulsion.

Just make sure not to overdo it, or your ferns might show stress or burn.

How Does Light Exposure Affect Fern Fertilizer Needs?

Though low light slows fern growth, you’ll need less fertilizer. In bright light, growth accelerates, so you’ll have to feed your fern more often to keep it lush and healthy.

Light directly impacts fertilizer needs.

Conclusion

Just like the tale of Jack nurturing his beanstalk to reach new heights, your ferns need the right boost to thrive. Choosing the best fertilizer from this list is your magic bean—giving your green friends the nutrients they crave. Whether you prefer spikes or liquid, organic or synthetic, these options will help your ferns grow lush and vibrant.

So, pick your fertilizer wisely and watch your indoor jungle flourish like never before! The best fertilizers for ferns provide essential nutrients that promote healthy fronds and robust growth. With the right care and fertilizer, your ferns will become the centerpiece of your home, thriving year-round.