Should I be feeding my indoor plants during the winter when they really aren't growing?
People ask me this question all the time. The real answer is that your plants have not really stopped growing. They are just growing much slower than in the longer day length and higher light intensity times of the year like the spring, summer and fall. They will still need nutrients to maintain their health just less than when they are growing vigorously.
How much is enough and how do I make sure that I am not overfeeding them?
The simplest way to do this is to tie your feeding in with the amount of water your plants are taking up.
We recommend making up a weak fertilizer solution and applying this when your plants need watering.
Use an empty 1-gallon milk or water container and mix the fertilizer in this container at the 1/4 teaspoon per gallon rate. You do not have to use all of the solution up each time. Just put the lid on it and it will keep just fine in a closet or on a shelf.
Do not put it in the refrigerator. I suggest the All Purpose 20-20-20 or the Houseplant Special 15-30-15 for almost all indoor plant types.
This is a weak fertilizer solution and can be used every time the plant needs watering. Since you will not be watering your plants as often in the winter, the secret is to fertilize them only when they need watering.
Over-watering your plants can promote disease problems in the root system so
be sure to water your plants only when they need it. Check by feeling the soil. Water when they are dry 1/2 to 1 inch below the surface. The secret to good plant care is consistency.
All Purpose
Blossom Booster
The Dynamic Duo
Acid Special
Houseplant Special
African Violet
Orchid Special
Orchid Bloom Liq
Orchid Liquid
ClassiCote
Petunia FeED
