Fertilizer Basics for House Plant Parents: What You Need to Know

Fertilizers are an important aspect of plant care, providing essential nutrients for growth and health. In this post, we'll discuss when to fertilize, why it's important, how much to use, and a tip on how to make an easy house plant fertilizer at home.

When to Fertilize:

The best time to fertilize your plants is during their active growing season, typically in the spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season, as the plants are not actively growing and may not be able to absorb the nutrients.

Why Fertilize:

Fertilizing provides plants with essential nutrients that they may not be able to get from the soil alone. These nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as trace minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. Fertilizing can improve plant growth, increase flower and fruit production, and improve overall plant health.

How Much to Use:

The amount of fertilizer to use depends on the type of plant and the fertilizer you are using. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the recommended amount and frequency of application. Over-fertilization can damage plants, so it's better to use less than to use too much.

Tip: How to Make Easy House Plant Fertilizer at Home:

If you want to try making your own fertilizer at home, there are several easy recipes you can use. One simple recipe involves using eggshells, which are rich in calcium and other minerals that plants need.

To make the fertilizer, rinse out eggshells and let them dry completely. Crush the eggshells into small pieces and sprinkle them on top of the soil around your plants. As the eggshells decompose, they release nutrients into the soil.

Another easy recipe involves using leftover coffee grounds, which are rich in nitrogen.

To make the fertilizer, let the coffee grounds dry out completely. Then sprinkle them on top of the soil around your plants. Be careful not to use too much, as coffee grounds can be acidic and may harm some plants.

In conclusion, fertilizing your plants is important for their growth and health. Fertilize during the active growing season, follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, and use homemade fertilizers like eggshells and coffee grounds to supplement your plant's nutrition. With these tips, you can help your plants thrive