5 Houseplant Fertilizer Myths
Recently one of our favorite vendors, fertilizer specialists Instant Plant Food, sent us an awesome newsletter about houseplant fertilizer myths. You might have noticed that indoor gardening and growing houseplants have become super popular in the last couple years. Apparently so have a few myths about houseplants! Instant Plant Food took the time to debunk five of the most common. Many of us are plant parents here at Goodly, so that newsletter has been shared all around.
Now we’re sharing with you! Because we want you to grow healthy, happy plants. Let’s debunk some myths!
Myth 1: Houseplants Don't Need Fertilizer
Reality: Totally false!
See, outdoor plants can get nutrients from leaf litter or animal droppings. Indoor plants don’t exactly have access to those things, so fertilizing houseplants during the growing season provides them with essential nutrients that help them thrive. The result is healthy and happy plants!
Myth 2: Don't Feed Your Plants in the Winter
Reality: Maybe, maybe not.
What’s true is that it’s best to fertilize plants while they are growing. What’s also true is that some plants go dormant in the winter — but not all of them. Dormant plants don’t need to be fed. If you know what plants you have, you can do a little research to see if they go dormant in the winter or not.
Myth 3: Sick Plants Need Fertilizer
Reality: No way!
Wilting or yellowing leaves? Or are the leaf tips turning brown? You might have a sick plant on your hands! And while we can see why you might want to add a bunch of fertilizer to the soil, that’s the opposite of what a sick plant actually needs. Instead, dial in your light and watering to get your plant growing again. Fertilizing plants should wait until they are growing!
Myth 4: The More Fertilizer, The Better
Reality: False!
OK, we kind of get this one. More is … more, right? And more is always better! Not so fast when it comes to feeding your houseplants! Plants actually grow better with just the right amount of nutrients. In fact, too much fertilizer can burn new roots, and excess fertilizer isn’t too healthy for the environment, either. Your plants really need just a small amount of gentle plant food!
Myth 5: Liquid Fertilizers Are Best
Reality: Um….
This one’s actually kind of tricky. See, most experts agree that liquid fertilizer is best. Here’s the problem, though: when you purchase a ready-made liquid fertilizer, you’re paying extra — to ship all that water. A much better solution is to find a fertilizer to mix with your own water instead, like Instant Plant Food!
1) Drop a tablet into a glass of water or watering can.
2) Wait for the tablet to bubble and dissolve.
3) Water your plants with the solution.
That’s it! Just repeat about every 3 months. Growing happy, healthy plants is now easier than ever!