Houseplants are a wonderful addition to any home, providing natural beauty, and creating a cool atmosphere. While watering and light are essential for their survival, proper fertilization is just as critical to ensure that your plants thrive. Learn how to fertilize your indoor plants with us today.
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Fertilizer provides houseplants with the nutrients they need to grow, bloom, and maintain vibrant foliage. However, learning how to fertilize correctly requires some knowledge to avoid underfeeding or overfeeding, which can harm your plants. We’re going to explore the essentials of fertilizing houseplants, helping you grow happy and healthy greenery. Let’s learn how to fertilize!
importance of fertilizer
In nature, plants obtain nutrients from the soil, decaying organic matter, and rainwater. However, the potting soil used for houseplants is limited in its ability to replenish nutrients. Over time, as your plant grows, it depletes the available nutrients in its container.
Fertilizer supplements these essential nutrients, such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), along with trace elements like calcium, magnesium, and iron. Without proper nutrition, houseplants may show signs of stunted growth, pale leaves, or failure to produce flowers.
Choosing the right fertilizer
Fertilizers come in various forms, including liquid, granular, and slow-release types. Each has its advantages, depending on your plant’s needs and your schedule:
- Liquid Fertilizers:
- Ideal for precise feeding.
- Easily diluted and applied during regular watering.
- Perfect for plants that need consistent, smaller doses of nutrients.
- Granular Fertilizers:
- Sprinkled on the soil’s surface and watered in.
- Releases nutrients over time but requires careful measurement.
- Slow-Release Fertilizers:
- Encapsulated in pellets that release nutrients gradually over weeks or months.
- Low maintenance and suitable for busy plant owners.
how to fertilize indoor plants
Over the years I’ve used a variety of indoor plant fertilizers. There are always new ones on the market to try. I typically like fertilizers that work for the widest variety of plants, are easy to use, and are mostly odorless. I’m sharing some of my favorites below. Not all of them fit my criteria, but my plant sure do look good!
- Rosy Soil Plant Food – Sprinkle up to 1/2 cup in the soil and water as normal. Use once per month.
- Marphyl Plant Food – Create a 1:20 ratio and water plant as normal. Can be used every 2 weeks.
- Arber Plant Food – Mix concentrate with water per instructions. Can be used every 7-14 days.
- Joyful Dirt Organics – Sprinkle on top of the potting soil and water as normal. This can be used every time you water if desired.
- Indoor Plant Food from HRC – Add a few drops to the soil and water as normal. Use as ofter as every watering if needed.
- Instant Plant Food – Dissolve tablet in water, as directed. Water once per 3 months.
As with all additives, please use as directed.
signs of fertilizer problems
Even with careful application, issues can arise. Watch for these signs to adjust your approach:
- Over-fertilization: Yellowing leaves, brown leaf tips, crusty soil surface, or poor growth may indicate too much fertilizer. Flush the soil with water to remove excess salts.
- Under-fertilization: Slow growth, pale leaves, and lack of flowers or fruit may mean your plant isn’t getting enough nutrients. Gradually increase fertilization.
Fertilizing your houseplants doesn’t have to be complicated. By choosing the right fertilizer, understanding your plant’s needs, and following proper application techniques, you can keep your indoor garden lush and thriving. Remember to observe your plants regularly and adjust your feeding routine based on their growth and health. With a little care and attention, your houseplants will reward you with vibrant foliage and, in some cases, beautiful blooms.
You can learn how to repot your plants the right way HERE, and if you have a pot without drainage holes, take a look at How To Drill Drainage Holes. Happy gardening!
