Easy Fertilizing Guide for Beginner Plant Lovers

Fertilizing your plants may seem like one of those overwhelming tasks within plant care. If it does, just know you’re not the only one feeling that way. Too many people overlook the importance of fertilizing their houseplants simply because they don’t know how to go about it. Really it’s quite simple and most importantly – it’s necessary. Yes, you really do need to fertilize your precious green friends and here is why.

Why fertilize?

All plants require certain nutrients to thrive – the most important ones are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium – and if you don’t occasionally replenish their supply, it may happen that your plants develop health issues or stop growing altogether. This applies especially for our dear houseplants as they are limited to the soil in their pots, and once those nutrients are gone, their roots can't just stretch out to go and find more. Smaller leaves, weak lanky stems, poor colour – no one wants those, right? In addition, your plant might not have enough strength to make it through the winter into the following spring. Just remember how many plants you’ve unintentionally killed over the winter months. And that is exactly where fertilizing comes into play. A little bit of plant food goes a long way and will really make that big difference.

Nitrogen for energizing healthy foliage growth

Phosphorous for big healthy blooms, expansive roots, fruits, and viable seeds

Potassium for a strong room system, resistance to disease and temperature stress

When and how often fertilize?

The rule of green thumb is that you fertilize during the growing season. For most plants, this means spring through autumn. Our plants need fertilizer to support their growth and boost them a little after the winter. Spring and summer are the best times of the year when plants are in their natural growth phase and will appreciate the dose of nutrients they need.

The time of the first dose may also depend on the date when you buy a new plant as plants from shops usually come in soil that has been pre-fertilized for several weeks to come (should be stated on the packaging). So it is always a good idea to wait a few weeks before you fertilize them for the first time so that you don’t do more harm than good.

How often depends on the types of plants you are growing as well as the season. Remember to significantly cut down (or stop altogether) on fertilizing during the cooler months as most of your plants go into dormancy and feeding would just confuse them. Fertilize again when spring comes and they need that boost to start growing again. Usually, the large species that grow fast and bloom will be heavy feeders whereas some will need very little to no fertilizer to stay happy (such as succulents and cacti).

What to fertilize with?

There are many types of fertilizers such as liquid, stick, tablet, granule, and slow-release forms (we recommend liquid to ensure even distribution). Look for a number on the label like 10-10-10 (representing the nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium proportions in the fertilizer, often abbreviated to N-P-K), which will suit most plants – this is called a balanced fertilizer. If you really want to delve deep in it, some research will be necessary. For example Calathea like 10-10-5 fertilizer once a month, Zamioculcas 10-10-10 four times per year, Monstera 20-20-20 every two weeks etc. Tillandsia or air plants love a spritz of foliar spray from time to time.

How to fertilize?

Remember to always read the instruction sheet that will specify how to proceed correctly with each type of fertilizing medium.

As we all want our plants to look nice and grow healthily, we first remove the dry and dying leaves with a knife or sharp scissors. This will help the plant channel her energy to the healthiest leaves. It’s probably no news but once a leaf goes yellow or brown, it will never heal or turn green again. Always remove these as it is better for your plant in the long run.

Remember to never pour fertilizer on dry soil. It is really important that the soil be evenly moist before application. If you are not too sure about the amount, you should halve the prescribed fertilizer dose to be on the safe side as excessive fertilization can lead to shock. Undiluted fertilizer is a BIG no-no. Carefully and evenly pour the fertilizer solution over the entire surface of the pot until it starts to flow out of the drainage hole. Then… wait. You’re done. That’s how easy it was. Just don't forget to pour out the collected water from the saucer underneath or the decorative pot. You shouldn’t ever have your plant standing in a puddle of water, especially diluted fertilizer.

Repeat this procedure as often as your plant requires. Keeping a diary is a good idea (or just jot it down in your phone’s calendar). For those who are a bit on the forgetful side, we recommend fertilizer in sticks or nutrient tablets every few months or so. Just follow the instructions on the package.

Hope our simple fertilizing run-down has been helpful and given you a bit of insight on how to up your plant care game even more.

May your planties grow, thrive and bring you joy for years to come!