How to Feed Houseplants

Just as we water houseplants because the rain doesn’t reach them, so we need to feed them because their roots are not able to reach out for nourishment. For best results feed regularly when the plant is actively growing or flowering. Allow plants a resting time when watering is reduced and feeding halted.

The major plant nutrients

Potassium (K): Helps to improve flower quality. Strengthens a plant’s resistance to disease.

Nitrogen (N): For strong, healthy stems, leaves and shoots. Provides good colour to leaves.

Phosphorus (P): For sturdy root growth.

Feeding when you water

Use a quality pot plant food such as Miracle-Gro Pour & Feed Plant Food which supplies a balanced range of plant nutrients. Most plants should be fed every 10 days or so from April to September. With Winter flowering plants this feeding period will be during their bud formation and display time. Add a capful of Houseplant Food to one litre of water and water the plant in the usual manner. Miracle-Gro Pour & Feed Plant Food is a ready diluted plant food that can be poured directly onto the compost of established pot plants. Pour a capful of the nutrient rich food onto the compost every couple of weeks and water in the usual way with plain water.

Feed every couple of months

Miracle-Gro Foliar Houseplant Plant Food Spikes are unique slow-release spikes of solid houseplant nourishment. They provide a steady supply of essential plant foods for up two months. Push a spike or two into the compost halfway between the plant stem and the pot edge so that it is fully covered. Water to moisten the compost and start the release of plant nutrients.

Feeding acid-lovers

There are many pot-grown plants which appreciate acid compost conditions and need extra iron for healthy growth. These include azalea, rhododendron, gardenia, citrus and camellia. Feed these plants during the growing season with Miracle-Gro Azalea, Camellia & Rhododendron Soluble Plant Food. It helps stop leaf yellowing. Mix 3 small bowls of Miracle-Gro Azalea, Camellia & Rhododendron Soluble Plant Food to 2 litres of water. Water plants ever 2-4 weeks when actively growing. Stop feeding when plants are dormant.