Fertilising your houseplants is essential to ensuring they grow strong and healthy. However, knowing when and how much to use can be tricky for beginners. Here's a guide to help you get started!
1. Why Fertilise Your Plants?
Fertiliser provides essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which promote plant growth, especially for houseplants like succulents and cacti. It mimics the nutrients found in natural soil environments.
2. When to Fertilise?
For succulents like Echeveria and Aloe Vera, it’s best to fertilise during their growing season—spring through summer. Avoid fertilising during the winter when they are dormant.
3. How Much Fertiliser to Use?
Start with a diluted, balanced fertiliser (10-10-10), applying it at half strength every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Over-fertilising can burn the roots and cause damage, so less is more.
4. Types of Fertilisers for Succulents and Cacti
For succulents and cacti, liquid fertilisers or slow-release pellets are ideal. Organic fertilisers, such as compost tea or fish emulsion, can also benefit plants by delivering natural nutrients over time.
5. Tips for Fertilising Your Houseplants
- Avoid fertilising newly repotted plants. Let them settle for a few weeks first.
- Water your plant before fertilising to prevent root burn.
- Less is always more when it comes to fertiliser—especially for succulents, which store nutrients in their leaves.
Conclusion
Fertilising is an important part of maintaining healthy houseplants, but timing and balance are key. Understanding your plants' needs, like succulents and cacti, will help them thrive. For more helpful plant care tips and products, check out Homegro’s houseplant subscription—perfect for new and seasoned plant lovers alike!
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