Fertilizer: What to Use & When to Use It

July 19, 2023

By Maddy Hogan

Indoor plants bring life, beauty, and a touch of nature into our homes. To ensure that our leafy companions thrive and flourish, providing them with proper nutrition is essential. Indoor plant fertilizers play a crucial role in supplying the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and vibrant foliage. In this blog post, we'll explore different types of fertilizers, discuss important chemical components, highlight the benefits of seaweed fertilizer, delve into Espoma's specialized fertilizers for cactus, orchids, African violets, and other indoor plants, and address safety concerns regarding the use of indoor plant fertilizers around pets and children.

When choosing a fertilizer for your indoor plants, it's important to consider the specific needs of each plant species. Fertilizers provide essential nutrients, including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), often referred to as N-P-K ratios. Different plants require varying levels of these nutrients, so it is important to select a fertilizer with the appropriate NPK ratios to meet your indoor plant's specific requirements.

All-Purpose Fertilizers: are suitable for most indoor plants and provide a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Look for a well-rounded option with a ratio like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. These ratios ensure that your plants receive a sufficient supply of all three major nutrients for healthy development.
Organic Fertilizers: if you are seeking a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option, organic fertilizers are an excellent choice. Derived from natural sources such as compost, manure, or plant matter, organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly over time. Organic fertilizers also enhance soil fertility, improve soil structure, and promote beneficial microbial activity, contributing to overall plant health.
Liquid Fertilizers: typically come in concentrated form and are mixed with water for easy application with regular watering. They are quickly absorbed by plants, allowing for faster nutrient uptake. Liquid fertilizers are available in various formulations, including balanced N-P-K ratios or specialized formulas tailored for specific plant types. They provide a convenient and effective way to feed indoor plants.

Apart from the N-P-K ratios, it's essential to understand the chemical components and percentages of fertilizers to make informed choices for your indoor plants. Besides nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, secondary macronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, as well as micronutrients like iron, manganese, zinc, and copper, are vital for plant growth. Some fertilizers may also contain additional beneficial additives, such as seaweed extracts or beneficial microbes, which enhance plant health and resilience.

One of Riza’s Favorites: The Benefits of Seaweed Fertilizer

Seaweed fertilizer has gained popularity among indoor plant enthusiasts for its numerous benefits. Seaweed contains essential growth hormones, trace minerals, and amino acids that promote plant vigor, root development, and stress resistance. It also improves soil structure and encourages microbial activity. Seaweed fertilizer can be used as a foliar spray or incorporated into the soil, providing a natural and effective boost to your indoor plants' health.

We carry Growmore Seaweed Extract fertilizer in our Downtown Napa storefront and regularly water our shop plants with this fertilizer for an added boost. This fertilizer is especially good for those more fickle plants, such as the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

Espoma, a renowned name in organic plant care, offers a range of specialized fertilizers designed for specific indoor plants, ensuring optimal nutrition and growth. Let's explore their specific products.

Espoma Cactus Mix

This specialized fertilizer is formulated with a balanced N-P-K ratio, as well as additional ingredients like bone meal and humates, to meet the unique needs of cacti and succulents. It provides the right combination of nutrients to support these plants' water-retaining capabilities, promote healthy root development, and enhance overall resilience.

Espoma Orchid Bloom Booster

Orchids have specific nutritional requirements, and Espoma's Orchid-tone caters to these needs. Enriched with organic ingredients, including feather meal, bone meal, and mined potassium sulfate, this fertilizer supplies the essential nutrients orchids needed for robust foliage, vibrant blooms, and overall vitality.

Espoma African Violet Mix

African violets are beloved indoor plants known for their stunning flowers. Espoma's African Violet Mix is specially formulated to deliver the necessary nutrients for vibrant blooms and healthy foliage. This fertilizer contains a balanced N-P-K ratio, along with ingredients like sphagnum peat moss and perlite to ensure optimal moisture retention and aeration.

Pet and Child Safety with Indoor Plant Fertilizers

While indoor plant fertilizers are essential for the health and growth of our beloved plants, it's important to consider the safety aspects, particularly when it comes to pets and children. Here are some key points to keep in mind to ensure a safe environment:

Read the Label: Before purchasing any indoor plant fertilizer, carefully read the product label and packaging. Look for any warnings or cautions regarding toxicity or potential hazards. Choose fertilizers that are labeled as safe for use around pets and children.
Store Fertilizers Securely: Store fertilizers in a safe place that is inaccessible to pets and children. Consider using locked cabinets or high shelves to prevent accidental ingestion or exposure.
Follow Application Guidelines: When applying fertilizers, follow the recommended dosage and application instructions provided by the manufacturer. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to nutrient imbalances and potential harm to plants and surrounding living beings.
Keep Pets and Children Away During Application: During fertilizer application, it's best to keep pets and children away from the area until the product has been properly absorbed or washed into the soil. This minimizes the risk of accidental contact or ingestion.
Watering and Drainage: After applying fertilizer, ensure thorough watering to help the nutrients penetrate the soil and prevent any residue on the plant's surface. Adequate drainage is crucial to prevent standing water, which could attract pets or children.
Natural and Organic Alternatives: Consider using natural and organic fertilizers, as they tend to have fewer chemical additives and are often safer for pets and children. Examples include compost tea, worm castings, or seaweed-based fertilizers.
Pet and Child Behavior: Monitor the behavior of your pets and children around indoor plants. Some pets may be attracted to the smell or taste of certain fertilizers, while curious children may be inclined to explore and touch plants. Keep an eye on their interactions to prevent any accidental ingestion or contact.
Pet-Safe and Child-Friendly Plants: Another precautionary measure is to choose indoor plants that are known to be safe for pets and children. This reduces the risk of accidental exposure to potentially harmful substances, including fertilizers. Consult reputable sources or your veterinarian for a list of pet-safe plants.

Proper timing and frequency of fertilizer application are crucial for maximizing the benefits and minimizing the risks associated with fertilizing indoor house plants. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the best time to fertilize and the ideal practices to follow:

General Timing: Indoor plants generally require fertilization during their active growth periods, which typically occur in the spring and summer months, we recommend April - October. This is when plants exhibit increased energy and nutrient demands due to enhanced photosynthesis and growth. As a general rule, refrain from fertilizing during the dormant period, which usually takes place in fall and winter.
Follow Plant-Specific Recommendations: While the spring and summer months serve as a general guideline, it's important to refer to plant-specific recommendations. Different plant species have unique growth patterns and nutrient requirements. Some plants may benefit from year-round fertilization, while others may require a dormant period without fertilization. Research your specific plant species or consult with a horticulturist or plant expert to determine the best fertilizing schedule for your indoor plants.
Dilute Strength and Frequency: When fertilizing indoor plants, it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommended dosage and frequency. It's generally safer to use a slightly lower concentration than the maximum recommended strength to avoid the risk of over-fertilization. Remember, more is not always better when it comes to fertilizers. Applying fertilizer at regular intervals, such as every two to four weeks, is usually sufficient for most indoor plants during their active growth phases.
Watering Routine: It's advisable to water your indoor plants thoroughly before applying fertilizer. This ensures that the roots are well-hydrated and helps prevent the concentration of nutrients around the roots, reducing the risk of burning or damaging the plant's delicate root system.
Time of Day: While there isn't a specific time of day that is significantly better for fertilizing plants, it's generally recommended to fertilize in the morning or early afternoon. This allows the plants to utilize the nutrients throughout the day as they photosynthesize and grow. Avoid fertilizing in the evening or before nighttime to prevent excess moisture on the leaves, which could potentially lead to fungal issues.
Adjusting Fertilization During Plant Stress: If your indoor plants are experiencing stress, such as due to transplanting, illness, or extreme temperature fluctuations, it's best to hold off on fertilization until they have recovered. Fertilizers can add additional stress to already weakened plants, so it's important to prioritize their overall health and recovery.

Nurturing your indoor plants with the right fertilizers is a key component of their overall health and vitality. Understanding the different types of fertilizers, their chemical components, and percentages empowers you to make informed choices for your indoor plants' specific needs. Whether you opt for all-purpose fertilizers, organic alternatives, or specialized formulations like Espoma's products, regular and appropriate fertilization will contribute to the beauty and vibrancy of your indoor plant collection. Moreover, by taking the necessary precautions and following safety guidelines, you can ensure the well-being of your pets and children. Embrace the joy of tending to your indoor plants with the knowledge and confidence that they are receiving the nutrients they need to thrive. All specific fertilizers mentioned in this blog can be purchased in our downtown Napa location at 1300 1st Street, Suite 355.