When to Fertilize Houseplants
Houseplants respond to fertilizer during periods of active growth. This is usually from March until October. Reduced light and temperatures throughout the winter months often render a plant inactive and it is generally recommended that plants not be fertilized at this time.
The labels on most water-soluble fertilizers recommend monthly applications. Since these nutrients are easily leached from the potting mix, your plants may benefit from more frequent dilute applications. If one teaspoon per quart of water is recommended for monthly feedings, you could feed bimonthly using only one-half a teaspoon per quart or weekly using a quarter teaspoon per quart. This gives the plant a steady, continuous supply of nutrients. This type of regime is often recommended for flowering plants like African violets.
When fertilizing houseplants always follow the directions on the label. More is not better and excess nutrients can harm roots and leaves. Always apply fertilizer to an already moist potting soil to avoid root damage.
Overfertilization Of Houseplants
Browning roots and leaf tips, wilting, poorly shaped leaves and a white crust on pot rims may indicate overfertilization. Excess nutrients in the potting soil will desiccate or burn tender roots. High concentrations of nutrient salts also prevent the plant from taking up water so wilting is observed.
Often leaching the potted plant with copious amounts of water will reduce excessive fertilizer salt levels. Be sure water can drain freely. Another solution would be to repot the plant, gently removing as much of the old potting mixture as possible, and replacing it with fresh medium.
Keep houseplants healthy and thriving by practicing good watering practices, meeting their light and temperature requirements and providing adequate nutrition through a regular fertilization program.
