Methods of fertilizing ornamental plants to stimulate growth
" Ways to fertilize ornamental plants to stimulate growth " One of the most important steps in plant care is using fertilizers to promote their growth and health, as fertilizer provides the essential nutrients that plants need . Regular fertilization helps produce strong foliage, which makes plants more resistant to pests and diseases. However, fertilizers should be used with caution, as excessive use can cause damage to plants.
In this article, we will explain the methods of fertilizing ornamental plants to stimulate growth, the appropriate time for fertilization, and the correct way to achieve balance and maintain plant health . We will also explain the best agricultural supplies from Planty Nursery.
What are the benefits of fertilizing ornamental plants?
Proper fertilization of houseplants promotes their health and growth by providing essential nutrients that they lack in their indoor environment. In nature, plants benefit from the decomposition of organic matter to replenish nutrients. Indoors, however, they lack this natural cycle , and as a result, they consume all the nutrients available in their soil and become depleted over time , making fertilization essential. Fertilizing plants helps them grow faster and become more resistant to stress and pests, and amending the soil with fertilizers helps replenish nutrients lost during the growing months.
The most important nutrients provided by fertilizers and their importance:
1. Nitrogen ( N ):
● An essential component of chlorophyll, essential for photosynthesis.
● It helps in the production of amino acids and proteins, which supports the growth of new tissue.
● Very important for leafy plants, such as philodendron and dieffenbachia.
● Excessive nitrogen may reduce flowering in flowering plants.
2. Phosphorus ( P ):
● Promotes the growth of roots, shoots, flowers, and fruits.
● It transports energy within the plant and contributes to cell division and tissue production.
● For flowering plants, a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus number (such as 20 , 30 , 10) is preferred.
3. Potassium ( K ):
● It is not incorporated into the chemical composition of the plant but is necessary for the stimulation of enzymes (at least 60).
● It enhances plant activity and vitality, and contributes to plant quality.
● Regulates the opening and closing of stomata, which helps in gas exchange and prevents excess water loss.
● Potassium deficiency can cause plants to dry out.
Types of indoor plant fertilizers
1. slow release fertilizers
● In the form of granules that release nutrients slowly over a period of weeks.
● The granules are sprinkled on the soil surface, mixed and then watered.
● It provides a steady supply of nutrients.
● Reduces the chance of damage to plants due to over-fertilization.
2. Water soluble fertilizers
● It often comes in a salt- or sugar-like form.
● Mix with water as directed and apply to plant.
● Requires frequent reuse.
● Caution is required to avoid over-concentrating the fertilizer with water, as it can stain hands.
3. Liquid fertilizers
● Product is ready to use or needs to be diluted with water.
● The ready-mixed liquid is added to irrigation water, usually in low proportions (such as 2-2-2) for continuous feeding.
● Instructions for use should be followed to indicate whether to apply to soil or foliage.
● Easy to use and convenient for providing nutrients quickly.
When to fertilize houseplants?
How often you fertilize houseplants depends on the type of plant. Flowering plants need more fertilizer than succulents . As a general rule, it's best to fertilize plants during their growing season (spring and summer), and you can fertilize them every 3-4 weeks depending on the type of fertilizer. In late fall and early winter, it's best not to fertilize plants and wait until the longest days in March.
The best time to fertilize plants is in the morning, before the sun is at its peak, to avoid burning the plants and to give them time to absorb nutrients before the intense heat.
Plant fertilization methods
When using fertilizers, it is best to dilute the recommended amounts to half or a quarter to avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn plants and reduce the roots' ability to absorb. Use a hand sprayer to apply liquid fertilizers effectively without creating clogs .
In some cases, plants can be fed foliarly ; plants absorb nutrients faster through the leaves. For good organization, it is advisable to document the plant types and fertilization times in a spreadsheet to ensure a regular schedule is followed. Before fertilizing, always make sure the plant is well watered to ensure the fertilizer is effective .
Now that you know how to fertilize ornamental plants to stimulate growth, you can avoid over-fertilizing , which can lead to several problems in houseplants, such as the appearance of brown wavy edges on the leaves, or crown rot (the base of the stem that meets the soil), and root death. You can also get the best plants and agricultural supplies from Planty Nursery.