Tropical Houseplant Care – How to Fertilize Your Houseplants

Your plants basically need two types of nourishment to survive: water and minerals. They get minerals by absorbing them from the damp soil through their roots. Outdoor plants can often gather all the minerals they need from their surroundings by themselves. However, houseplant care requires more careful attention from the gardener, since the nutrients available from the soil in a pot are limited.

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 element should I use for my plants?

The amount of each element needed will of course depend on the species of plant. Too much is just as bad for the plant as too little, so it requires a bit of research to learn exactly what is right for your particular tropical plant. Usually this help is available by either reading the label, or by asking your plant-supply person.

What is the function of each of the primary nutrients?

This topic is continually being researched by scientists. For the purposes of gardening, we can say that phosphorus is needed in greater amounts for flowering plants, while leafy plants like plenty of nitrogen. Potassium is particularly required for plants that bear fruit, since it helps to carry other nutrients through the plant tissues.

How can I tell if my plant is getting too little or too much fertilizer?

A nutrient deficiency will often cause the leaves to lose color, or to be smaller than normal. To help the plant recover, use a soluble fertilizer, so the nutrients can be absorbed faster. Too much fertilizer can result in brown leaf tips, or in wilting. This condition is easily relieved by soaking the whole pot in water to allow the excess nutrients to be washed away.

How do I apply the fertilizer, and how often do I do it?

Personally, I prefer fertilizers that are dissolved in water, as this method is less likely to result in over-fertilization. I mix the fertilizer according to package directions, and then apply it by thoroughly watering the plant, until it flows out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. I find that doing this about every two months is usually just about right.

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 Professor’s website on tropical houseplants, where you can get help with your plants. There are also lots of beautiful pictures, and some cool videos too.