Feed Me: Tips To Avoid Hangry Plants

18 Dec, 2022

Plants love a good feed. It makes perfect sense that as living organisms, they need hydration from water and nutrients from food (or fertiliser) to help them grow. But fertiliser can be confusing… with so many options to choose from, feeding your plants can feel harder than cooking for your entire extended family. At least your loved ones will tell you when they’ve had enough!

Why do I need to feed my plants?

It helps to think of your plants like a busy sun-powered production line. The right ingredients are needed to produce new shoots, leaves, flowers, fruits, or vegetables. Once the key nutrients run out, the production line grinds to a halt. Your plant may still look healthy, but it won’t be bursting forth with new growth and reaching its full potential. Plants need the most nutrients when they are actively growing, flowering, and producing seed, fruits or vegetables - often in the warmer seasons. A well-nourished, healthy, and wellwatered garden will also help to keep pests and diseases at bay.

Can I overfeed my plants?

Don’t get overzealous – just like humans, it is possible to overfeed your plants. In fact, using too much fertiliser or using too many types at once can be worse than using none at all. ‘Fertiliser burn’ refers to plants that look dried out and unhealthy after being exposed to high doses of plant feed. Avoid issues by following instructions on fertiliser packets and remember that most mixes will include a fertiliser, so newly planted plants won't need the seasonal top up that others will.

Organic or man-made?

Organic fertilisers are made from plant, mineral or animal materials. Examples include blood and bone, seaweed, worm castings or manure. These fertilisers bring beneficial microorganisms to your soil, increase water retention, and ensure chemical-free fruits and veggies. Note that organic fertilisers will need more time to break down into your soil and may not work fast enough to supply nutrition to a plant that needs it now. Man-made fertilisers are inorganic compounds of specific chemicals. Examples include superphosphate and urea. Man-made fertilisers can offer fast relief for plants that need nutrients now.

Choosing the right food
Now that you know a bit more about plant food, let’s take a look at some of the options on the fertiliser menu.

Granules or Liquid?

The main difference between a granular fertiliser and a liquid fertiliser is how much time it will take your plants to absorb nutrients, and how frequently you need to feed them. Liquid fertilisers are a great quick fix, like a Berocca boost for your plants, but will require regular application during the growing season. Granular fertilisers are little pockets of nutrients for your plants, providing nutrients for months at a time, activated every time you water your plants. You can use both a granular and liquid fertiliser at the same time, but we’d recommend chatting to one of our Plant Doctors for feeding advice tailored to your specific plants and growing conditions so you don't give your plants more than they need.

Our Plant Doctor's top 5 fertilisers

When it comes to recommending the right products for your plants, our online Plant Doctor, Tracey, is here to help. Here’s her top 5 recommendations of fertilisers ideal for first time plant feeders:

Kings Liquid Fast Food

A well-balanced liquid fertiliser which can be used for all indoor and outdoor plants. Perfect for container and pot plants but also a great all- rounder for any garden plants

Aquaticus Garden Booster

An organic fish-based liquid fertiliser that provides an immediate boost. Suitable for all plant types, particularly edibles. Dilute with water and add to your soil once a month during the growing season.

Tui Novatec

Novatec is a great all-round slow- release granular fertiliser which will feed your plants for up to four months at a time. Perfect for using directly in the garden or applying to plants growing in containers.

Kings Citrus and Fruit Tree Food

Specially formulated granular feed to improve the taste, colour and size of your fruit. Only suitable for application in garden beds (not pots) and an excellent nutrient boost when added at time of planting. Keep applying to the base of established fruit trees once a month throughout spring, summer and autumn.

Kings Sheep Pellets

Specially formulated granular feed to improve the taste, colour and size of your fruit. Only suitable for application in garden beds (not pots) and an excellent nutrient boost when added at time of planting. Keep applying to the base of established fruit trees once a month throughout spring, summer and autumn.

If you need advice on what fertiliser to choose for your plants, ask one of our plant experts instore today. Like a good fertiliser, we’re always here to help you grow well.

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