Have never encountered Osmocote in a tablet form - that's a new one on me! Generally it comes in a jar with just the loose granules and I apply a small amount (1-2 Tbsp depending on container size) each spring as new growth begins. It lasts pretty much all season although I do supplement with a liquid (Dyna Gro) from time to time during the summer months as it provides a lot of the trace elements/micronutrients that Osmocote omits. I would think one tablet is sufficient for most containers.

And I am not sure I really consider the development of dead wood on JM's as 'die back'. Certainly die back can occur from winter cold damage as well as disease issues but the typical dying off of small twigs and stems is a completely natural phenomenon with JM's and nothing really to be concerned about. For whatever reason, many of these smaller stems or twigs just fail to survive and you seem to see it more with the weeping dissectum types so I am guessing it has much to do with congestion and shading. There are other trees that develop a similar trait - Styrax japonica and various birches comes to mind - so this is not unique to JM's.

Thanks Gardengal for the Positive Imput.It does seem the Fertilizer & Supplement Formulas do occasionally differ on Opposite sides of the Pond..

Take care Ya All

Stephen,Cheshire,UK

Beautiful tree. I like Osmocote, especially around summer flower plantings. I did sprinkle some in when I did transplanting last year.