Submitted by Joan Regan
FERTILIZERS
Our garden plants are fortunate to be able to stretch out their roots for their much needed nutrients, however our house plants rely on us for help with their nutritional health. This is where fertilizers come in. There are three numbers on the fertilizer containers. The first one is NITROGEN to stimulate leaf growth, keeping them healthy and green. The second is PHOSPHORUS keeping the roots growing healthy and strong, much needed for a house plant’s survival. Next is POTASSIUM helping with the plant’s overall developing and functions.
The rule of thumb usually is to only fertilize from April 1st to October 1st. However, I have had great success with feeding like Mother Nature would – all year. Following directions on the label from April – October and 1/2-1/4 strength the rest of the year. I remember reading this a few years ago so gave it a try and find it very successful.
SIZE MATTERS
When purchasing a new plant or transplanting one I always used to go up 2 or 3 sizes but found this caused stress on the plant so now I will only go up one size and my transplantings have been far happier. However, if you have a special pot that you want to use just put the plant in a nursery pot inside of the pretty one, being careful to watch when watering for overflow.
WATERING
Most house plants are happy with a good deep watering twice a month, although some like a drink more often depending on the plant and the size of the container. It doesn’t take long for them to let you know just what they like. My Chinese Evergreens and my Spathiphyllum are sure going to let me know if they’re thirsty.
House plants are great friends to keep our green thumbs green till we can get back outside and get our hands in the dirt.
Happy Indoor gardening,
Joni
jpregan@amtelecom.net 519 596 2389
