Fertilising your tropical houseplants can greatly enhance their health and beauty, but it's important to avoid common pitfalls that could potentially harm them. Here’s a list of things to avoid when fertilising your tropical houseplants and why:
- Over-fertilising: Applying too much fertiliser can lead to nutrient burn, which manifests as browned, crispy leaf edges and can severely damage the root system. Excessive nutrients can accumulate in the soil, creating a toxic environment that may stunt growth or even kill the plant.
- Fertilising dormant Plants: During their dormant phase, typically in winter, plants slow down their growth and reduce their nutrient uptake. fertilising during this time can lead to nutrient accumulation in the soil, which can harm the plant when it resumes active growth.
- Ignoring manufacturer's instructions: Not following the recommended application rate and frequency can lead to under- or over-fertilization. Always adhere to the guidelines provided on the fertiliser packaging to ensure optimal results.
- Fertilising sick or stressed plants: Plants that are suffering from disease, pests, or stress may not be able to effectively process nutrients. Adding fertiliser to such plants can exacerbate the stress and may hinder recovery rather than helping.
- Using outdated or expired fertilisers: Chemicals in fertilisers can degrade over time, losing their effectiveness and potentially releasing harmful compounds. Always check the expiration date to ensure the quality and effectiveness of the fertiliser. That is why we created a fertiliser with a shelf life of at least five years!
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your tropical houseplants remain healthy and vibrant, properly absorbing the nutrients they need to thrive.
Buy our universal plant nutrition for houseplants here