Take your plant care to the next level.
Over time, the nutrients in the potting soil get depleted, and your plants can suffer.
Fertilizing houseplants can keep them looking happy.
Photo:Sarah Crowley
What Kind of Fertilizer Should You Use?
Not all fertilizers are created equal.
“I tell my customers to use a water-soluble fertilizer, specifically a rich fish emulsion fertilizer.
Anything organic is going to feed longer than a chemical fertilizer.”
Hillman recommends diluting the fertilizer in a ratio of 14 to 12 teaspoon fertilizer per gallon of water.
Another great tip is towater your plantbeforeyou fertilize it.
It keeps the fertilizer from burning the roots, and the moist soil helps the fertilizer absorb better.
If you’re thinking that a fish emulsion fertilizer is going to smell, you’re right.
But Hillman says that it goes away in a day or two.
“It’s good to give the plants a little rest,” says Hillman.
New Growth, Now What?
Keep an eye on your plants and whether their roots are outgrowing their pots or planters.
If they need to be repotted, add in a little compost too.
Limit it to once every six weeks to be on the safe side.
Setting your plants up with a good quality soil and compost gives them a fighting chance, too.
