Your houseplants require both water and minerals for survival. Outdoor plants can usually pick up all the minerals they need from their surroundings without much help from the gardener. Indoor plants, however, need more attention, since nutrients in the potting soil need replenishment.

What do those numbers on the fertilizer bag mean?

Most fertilizers have the three minerals necessary for plants: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K). The numbers on the bag represent the percentages of these three nutrients. A fertilizer labelled 20-10-15 has 20% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, and 15% potassium. These are not the only elements that a plant needs, but other elements are required in much lower quantities.

How much of each mineral does my plant need?

This of course depends on what type of plant you are fertilizing. It is very important not to give your plant too much or too little food. This is a decision that must be made for each individual plant. You should carefully read both the label that came with your plant if there is one, and the label on the bag of fertilizer. If you’re still not sure, ask the person at the plant store for advice.

What is the function of each of the primary nutrients?

This is a subject of continuing research by scientists. To oversimplify a bit, we can say that leafy plants need lots of nitrogen, whereas flowering varieties require more phosphorus. Potassium is useful in combating plant diseases, and is also needed by fruit-bearing plants as an aid in transporting other minerals through plant tissue.

How do I know if my plant is getting the right amount of these foods?

If the leaves are losing color, or are smaller than usual, your plant is likely suffering from a mineral deficiency. You can help by using liquid fertilizer, since this allows the roots to absorb the minerals faster. Brown leaf tips or wilting leaves are a sign of over-fertilization. The quick fix for this ailment is a thorough flushing with plenty of water to remove the excess fertilizer.

How and when do I apply fertilizer?

My method is to use a solution of dry fertilizer in water. Carefully following the directions on the package should make it easy not to over-fertilize your plants. I thoroughly water each plant, until the solution begins to flow out of the drain holes in the bottom of the pot. I find that feeding my plants about every other month is fine – more frequently for blooming plants in season.

If you use care in feeding your house plants, they will not only stay alive, they’ll become luxuriant. And don’t forget to ask for advice if you’re having difficulties. Your plant store should be happy to help a good customer.

Do you need more help with tropical houseplant care? Visit the author’s website on tropical houseplants, where you can find help for your plants. There are also lots of beautiful photos, and some cool videos too. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service