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Houseplants, like people, need the right nutrition in order to grow and thrive. Here's a guide to fertilizers and the proper feeding of plants.
It's common knowledge that plants need water, light, and oxygen to grow, but many newcomers to the world of indoor gardening don't realize that plants need food as well. Like us, without proper food they won't thrive and flourish. The food that plants need consists of three main ingredients, nitrogen, phosphates, and potash. Each ingredient helps plants in a very specific way. Nitrogen contributes to lots of lush green foliage, Phosphates insure strong healthy roots, and Potash is important for big, beautiful flowers. If a plant does not get these nutrients by way of regular feeding, growth will slow, stems will weaken, leaves will pale or become spotted, and eventually total collapse will occur. However, before rushing out to the garden center, there are some important rules to remember. Know when and what to feed. Plants only need to be fed during the spring and summer months when growth is rapid. In the winter, when plants become dormant and growth slows, feeding is not necessary at all. Second, how plants are fed is just as important as what they are fed. Plant foods come in powders, pills, sticks, and liquids. Powders are quite popular in outdoor gardens but not practical for houseplants. Sticks seem convenient but can actually be very harmful because their nutrients are released in one spot, which can burn roots. The best food for houseplants is the liquid type. These are easily mixed with water and can be applied evenly. Think about natural foods. There are also some natural ways to feed plants. Water from fish tanks is usually rich in nutrients and makes an ideal fertilizer, as long as it’s not from a salt water tank. Water used to boil potatoes, pasta, or eggs is also good for plants. Just make sure to cool it to room temperature before using. Fertilize carefully. It is possible to give too much of a good thing. Overeating is as bad for plants as it is for people. A plant given too much fertilizer will weaken and wilt,as the nutrients in it, while very beneficial to plants in the proper amounts, actually burn and damage tender roots and plant tissues in large amounts. It is extremely important to follow the directions on the bottle. Also avoid feeding any plant that is recovering from damage or insect infestation as it can not handle fertilizers in its weakened state. Remember, only feed during the growing season, use a liquid or natural fertilizer, always follow the directions on the bottle, and never overfeed and and the reward will be lush, vigorous and beautiful houseplants.
The copyright of the article Nourishing Your Houseplants in Houseplants is owned by Susan Walsh. Permission to republish Nourishing Your Houseplants in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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