Are you a plant parent worried about sad and dull plants? We all want lush and vibrant plants, but sometimes they seem a bit….meh. Your plants might be hungry and lacking essential nutrients! Just like us, plants need a balanced diet to stay healthy. That’s where fertilizer comes in. The right indoor plant fertilizer can make a difference.
This guide will discuss all the key nutrients plants need to stay healthy and strong. We will compare different types of fertilizers so you can choose the best product based on your plant’s needs.
We'll also tell you about different indoor house plant fertilizers available in the market, including our BIOS All-Natural Plant Fertilizer. It's a balanced and eco-friendly option that your plants will love.
Understanding Plant Nutrition
Just like we are prescribed multivitamins for better health, plants are given fertilizers. Fertilizers are a blend of essential nutrients. If there is some deficiency in the soil or atmosphere, the plant fertilizer will cover it and help the plant to reach its full potential.
Normally, the plants can grow without fertilizers but a lush indoor plant full of flowers is everyone’s desire. Indoor house plant fertilizers ensure lush growth and cover up deficiencies in plants grown in pots.
You must be wondering which nutrients are needed for your plant. And which nutrients are responsible for a certain behavior? Hold on! We have compiled all the answers for you.
Essential nutrients that plants need - Macronutrients (NPK)
Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) are the most important nutrients for plants. You may have seen it in the form of the NPK ratio written on fertilizers.
Nitrogen promotes lush, green foliage and overall plant growth.
Phosphorus improves root development, flowering, and fruit production.
Potassium strengthens plant cell walls. Healthy cells means more resistance against diseases and pests.
Secondary Nutrients:
Calcium is also important for cell wall structure.
Magnesium is central to chlorophyll and energy transfer.
Sulfur helps in protein synthesis and enzyme function.
Plants need these elements in lesser amounts. There are also some trace elements which help trigger better growth and health but are needed in smaller proportions. The trace elements are iron, manganese, zinc, copper, molybdenum, boron, and chlorine.
Different plants may need different nutrient balances to grow well. Nitrogen supplements for leaf growth and lush foliage, and phosphorus helps flowering. So it all depends upon the plant’s needs, but a balanced fertilizer can work for all.
If you want to become a better plant parent, you must understand your plant’s needs. Monitor your plant’s cues and choose the fertilizers accordingly for the best results.🌱
Types of Indoor Plant Fertilizers
Irrespective of the ingredients, Indoor house plant fertilizers come in different forms. Plants also have the choice, just like we can take vitamins in the form of syrup, pills, or gummy bears. The same goes for your plants.
1. Liquid Fertilizers
Liquid fertilizers are fast-acting, like a nutrient-rich, refreshing drink. These are available in concentrated form, you need to mix them with water before feeding to the plant.
These fertilizers are generally preferred for their quick nutrient absorption. These are suitable for a wide variety of indoor plants.
The only issue is that you may need to use them frequently because they get absorbed easily. Use them cautiously, as an overdose can seriously harm your plants.
2. Granular Fertilizers
Granules are nutrient-packed dry pallets that you sprinkle on soil. These are slow-release fertilizers. As you water the plants, the nutrients are released and absorbed into plants through water.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance method for using fertilizers, consider granular fertilizers.
Just remember to put the granules into the soil carefully. If applied directly to the roots, the concentrated granules can damage them.
Indoor houseplant fertilizers also come in various forms like coarse ground or powder form. Plant spikes are also available in the market.
Organic vs Synthetic Fertilizers
Now, let's talk about the ingredients! Just like our food, house plant fertilizers can be organic or synthetic.
Organic fertilizers are derived from natural sources like compost, manure, or plant-based materials.
These fertilizers are environment-friendly. They are mostly made of renewable resources and improve soil structure. Organic fertilizers also contain beneficial microorganisms, so they improve soil health naturally.
These fertilizers release nutrients slowly, and the results take time. Premium organic fertilizers often cost more than synthetic ones.
Synthetic fertilizers are a combination of chemical compounds. These provide a higher concentration of nutrients.
Synthetic fertilizers are fast-acting and have precise nutrient content. These are a cost-effective solution for covering plant deficiencies. But we cannot deny the fact that some synthetic fertilizers are potential threat for our environment. They also deteriorate the soil health.
How to Choose the Right Indoor House Plant Fertilizer
Choosing the right fertilizer depends on a few factors:
Plant type
Leafy plants like decorative ferns or pothos need more nitrogen. Flowering plants such as orchards or tomato plants need more phosphorus. For improving overall plant health, consider a fertilizer with more potassium.
Potting medium
Peat-based soils hold nutrients better than others so you can ease the feeding frequency. A well-draining soil will need more number of fertilizer feedings.
Environment
Light and humidity levels can affect how often you need to fertilize. Bright light requires more frequent fertilizing. But fertilizing plants too often in dry environments can stress the plants. So watch out the surroundings before feeding your plant.
NPK Ratios
Look for the three numbers on the label. These numbers represent the ratio of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. 1:1:1 (Balanced fertilizer) is good for general-purpose use. Most plants are okay with this fertilizer ratio, but some may need more of one nutrient than others.
When and how often to feed
- If your plant is showing signs of distress, check for pests and diseases. Provide it with enough light, and if it is still unwell, you can feed it. Yellowing leaves in new growth show lack of nutrients, and it is time to feed your plant.
- Don’t forget to fertilize your plants in the active growing season. Spring and summers are mostly the growing seasons, and plants are dormant in winter/fall. Growing plants need more fertilizer than those in their dormant phase.
- At the start of the growing season, introduce the fertilizers with half of the recommended concentration or amount. Gradually increase the dose as your plants get used to it.
- Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
- Stop or slow down fertilizing during dormancy.
How to use fertilizers
Fertilizers have customized instructions written on their pack. Read the fertilizer label to understand the NPK ratio and application instructions.
- If liquid fertilizer is used, dilute it according to the pack label and put it into watering can to add to your houseplants.
- If using granular fertilizer, put it away from the stem of the plant as direct interaction can cause burns on the stem.
- Apply fertilizers while placing the plant in a well-ventilated area.
- Wear gloves when handling fertilizers.
- Remember, it is better to under-fertilize your plants than to over-fertilize.
Signs of over-fertilization
Yellow or brown leaves with burnt foliage often show up when you over-fertilize the plant. If you see salt buildup on the soil surface and your plant has stopped growing, this is also a sign of over-fertilization.
Signs of under-fertilization
If you notice thin and weak stems, pale leaves, and poor growth, chances are that the fertilizer is not enough. Lack of flowers or fruits also shows nutrient deficiencies.
Top Recommended Indoor Plant Fertilizers
Here is a list of recommended fertilizers that you can use for your indoor plants:
All Natural Plant Fertilizer
Our BIOS All Natural Plant Fertilizer is suitable for all types of indoor plants. It has all the essential nutrients for your houseplants. It adds good microbes to your pot soil and improves the soil health naturally.
It's a slow-release, homemade, organic-based natural fertilizer. It never burns your plants, and guess what? It is safe for pets and children. People who have used it have already loved it due to its balanced formulation and eco-friendly ingredients. It is a must-buy for your plants. Visit our website and order one for your plant buddies.
Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food
This indoor plant fertilizer is suitable for most of the leafy and flowering houseplants.
It is a fast-acting and easy-to-use liquid fertilizer. Users like it due to its quick results and lush green growth.
Jobe’s Organics Indoor Fertilizer Spikes
You can prefer this fertilizer for low-maintenance indoor plants. It is available in the form of easy-to-use, slow-release spikes.
It is preferred due to its organic nutrients. It is a consistent and convenient, low-effort fertilization method. Jobe’s provides customized fertilizers for many plant products, and you can choose one that fits your plant.
Neptune’s Harvest Fish & Seaweed Fertilizer
It is an organic-based fertilizer for gardeners looking for an eco-friendly option. It provides a full spectrum of nutrients from natural fish and seaweed.
Important Tip:
Use potting mix to improve plant health when repotting or starting new plants. Potting mix provides a firm base for a healthy plant.
Let's learn more about potting mixes.
Potting Mixes for Stronger and Vibrant Indoor Plants
Potting mixes are essential for indoor plants as they cannot survive in normal soil in pots. Potting mixes provide balanced nutrients, moisture retention, and drainage. Unlike outdoor soil, indoor plants need specialized mixes to support healthy growth in pots.
A high-quality potting mix is nutrient-rich, it improves drainage and ensures aeration. It creates an optimal growing environment for indoor plant buddies. The potted plants with a good potting mix then exhibit fuller growth, better foliage, and stronger roots.
If you want best results, you can order our Indoor Plant Potting Mix for healthier and fuller growth. It is enriched with coconut husk fiber and natural fertilizers. It’s lightweight, well-draining, and ideal for a variety of tropical and indoor plants.
We have reviewed many indoor plant fertilizers in this blog. If you want to explore more products from My Greenscape, visit this page. We have a collection of potting mixes, fertilizers, pesticides, and more. If you have any questions, refer to our next section; maybe we can answer your query here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I accidentally used too much fertilizer?
Over-fertilizing can stress your plant. If you think you've added too much liquid fertilizer, try flushing the soil. Add abundant water, and it will drain out, taking fertilizer with it. If you’ve put granules, you can pick them up carefully. Even after removing the fertilizer, watch out for stress signals from your plant. If your buddy is still stressed, you may need to repot the plant with fresh soil.My plant is growing tall and leggy. Will fertilizer can help?
Fertilizers can help plants grow, but they cannot stop leggy growth. Your plant may be growing sidewards because it needs more sun. Try to place the plant in a well-lit area, and it will help the leggy growth.Can I use the same fertilizer for my outdoor and indoor plants?
It is not recommended to use outdoor plant fertilizers for indoor plants. Outdoor fertilizers are very strong and intense and can harm sensitive indoor plants. It is best to use fertilizers specially formulated for indoor plants.Should I fertilize a new plant right after I bring it home?
Hold on for a while after bringing your new plant to home. Those little buddies need time to adjust to the new environment. The potting mixes also have some nutrients that can work in case they need some food. So, wait for a few weeks before feeding the new plant.Conclusion
That's all plant parents! You are now ready to nurture your indoor plants and become a better plant parent. We have discussed all the details about choosing the right indoor plant fertilizer and using it in right way.
If you want lush growth in your little indoor potted plants, don’t forget to order from our fertilizer range. Put a little love and attention towards little plant buddies, and they will be happy and healthy. 🌿✨