Fertilizers come in various forms, and each has its pros and cons based on cost, convenience, and your plant’s needs. Some fertilizers are specifically formulated for particular plants, such as African violets, orchids, or succulents, offering the right balance of nutrients and dosage for those types..
Chemical vs. Organic
The choice between chemical and organic fertilizers is more critical for outdoor gardening than for indoor plants. For houseplants, it’s largely a matter of personal preference, as plants can’t distinguish between nutrient sources. Unlike outdoor soil, potting mixes lack the microbial life that supports nutrient cycling, so synthetic fertilizers do not harm the mix or the plant. Additionally, while organic fertilizers are often seen as eco-friendly and beneficial for soil health, indoor potting mix doesn’t require soil improvement, nor does it impact the environment outside.
Organic fertilizers come from natural sources like liquid kelp, fish emulsion, and bat guano, though they can have a strong odor. These fertilizers typically contain the three macronutrients but may lack some micronutrients. Synthetic fertilizers, on the other hand, are derived from man-made compounds, often petroleum by-products. They generally contain a full spectrum of nutrients without the strong smell of organic options.
Liquid Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizers come in ready-to-use or concentrated forms. Ready-to-use liquid fertilizers can be added directly to water, often in low nutrient concentrations (like 2-2-2), and are ideal for consistent, ongoing feeding. Concentrated liquids, on the other hand, need to be diluted before use. You can adjust the dilution to feed continuously or according to a set schedule.
Water-Soluble Powder Fertilizer
This affordable option requires mixing powder with water before application. It’s easy to control dosage, making it simple to either add to regular watering or use periodically. Be aware that some powders contain dyes that can stain hands, and humidity may cause clumping in warmer months.
Slow-Release Granules
Granules can be sprinkled onto the soil surface, mixed in with a tool, and then watered in. These granules release nutrients over time, usually lasting several months. This method requires tracking the application date. Alternatively, you can mix them into potting soil, though you’ll need to remember which plants have already been fertilized to avoid overfeeding.
Fertilizer Spikes, Sticks, and Tablets
These are also slow-release options, lasting several months. They can be a bit tricky to place in crowded pots, and you need to track when each was added. There’s also a slight risk of root burn if the spike or tablet touches the roots directly.
Foliar Feeds
Foliar fertilizers are liquids sprayed directly onto leaves, suitable for plants like bromeliads and tillandsias. While effective, they can be messy and may not be ideal for indoor use in living spaces.
Avoid Over-Fertilizing
More fertilizer isn’t better. Excessive fertilizer can lead to a buildup of salts, which hampers the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. This salt buildup can appear as a white crust on the soil surface or pot. To prevent this, occasionally flush the soil by thoroughly watering until excess water drains out, repeating as needed. Some plants are sensitive to salt buildup and may need monthly flushing.
Fertilizing is essential to houseplant care, so take time to learn what your specific plants need and develop a feeding plan that suits your schedule and budget. This will help your indoor plants stay healthy and thrive.
When to Feed Your Houseplant
To know when to fertilize your houseplant, it’s best to understand its specific needs. Different types of plants require different feeding routines—flowering plants often need different nutrients than foliage plants, while succulents and cacti generally require less fertilizer.
General Guidelines
In general, houseplants should be fertilized during their active growing season, which is typically spring through fall. Winter-blooming plants, however, may need feeding during cooler months. Creating a schedule for feeding ensures consistency during the growing season. Remember that some plants are heavier feeders and may require more frequent fertilization.
Newly purchased plants or those recently repotted in fresh potting mix don’t need immediate fertilizing, as fresh soil contains nutrients. However, after about a month, the nutrients in the soil start to diminish, so consider starting a regular fertilizing schedule then..