The growing season has started, and you can already see it: your plants are coming back to life! Whether you’re already busy taking cuttings from your favorite plants or are simply enjoying watching them grow, one thing is for sure: now is the time to give your plants some extra care. Plant food is essential for this – it gives your green friends the energy they need to grow healthy and strong. But which plant food is best for your houseplants? In this blog, we’ll dive into the two most popular types of food: liquid food and slow-release food. What are the pros and cons of each, and which one suits your care style best? Let’s find out!
Liquid plant food: The fastest solution
Liquid food is perhaps the most commonly used form of plant food, and for good reason! It is simply mixed with water and added to your plants while watering. This makes fertilizing very easy and quick, but don't forget to do it regularly. Every time you water your plants, you have to remember to add the right amount of liquid food.
Benefits of liquid plant food:
- Super easy to use: You simply mix it with your water and pour it over your plants.
- Direct recording: Plants absorb the nutrients immediately through the roots, which ensures fast results.
- Equal distribution: The liquid food is evenly distributed over the soil.
- Foliar feeding possible: You can also use the liquid food to spray the leaves.
Disadvantages of liquid plant food:
- Shorter duration of action: Because it leaches, you need to fertilize more often.
- Higher costs: Liquid nutrition can be a little more expensive in the long run.
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And for an extra boost, you can even try foliar feeding. This sprays the liquid food directly onto the leaves, which can be quickly absorbed by the plant through the stomata. Keep in mind that this is not the most efficient way to provide your plant with all the nutrients, but it can help for a little extra care.
Slow Release Plant Food: Long-Term Solution
Slow release nutrients are perfect for those who don’t want to spend time fertilizing every month. These nutrients often come in the form of granules that you mix with your plant’s potting soil. The nutrients are released gradually, depending on the temperature: faster in warm weather, slower in cold weather.
Benefits of slow release plant food:
- Long lasting effect: Once applied, it will last for months.
- Less maintenance: You don't have to worry about fertilizing regularly.
- Cost saving: In the long run it may be more beneficial than liquid nutrition.
Disadvantages of slow release plant food:
- Some more work: Application is a bit more of a hassle, as you have to mix the granules well into the soil.
- Slower recording: It takes longer for your plant to fully absorb the nutrients.
Salt Buildup and Root Burn: What Can You Do?
When fertilizing your plants, problems can sometimes occur, such as salt buildup or root burn. It is important to be aware of these so that you can prevent them.
Salt accumulation:
Salt buildup occurs when minerals build up in the soil, often from over-fertilization or hard water. This can lead to a white coating on the soil or on the leaves of your plant. Symptoms include wilted leaves or a white crust on the soil.
How do you prevent salt build-up?
Watering from above helps flush excess minerals and salts from the soil. Use well-draining potting soil and pots with drainage holes to ensure water can drain away.
Root burn:
Root burn happens when you give your plants too much food, which damages their roots. This can lead to stunted growth, brown leaf edges, and even leaf drop.
How do you prevent root burn?
Always read the instructions on the packaging of your plant food and adjust the amount to the specific needs of your plant. Too much food can be harmful, even with the best products.
What is the best plant food for your plants?
The choice between liquid or slow release nutrition depends on your personal preference and how much time you want to spend caring for your plants. Do you prefer a quick result and are you willing to fertilize regularly? Then choose liquid nutrition. Do you prefer less maintenance and a long-term solution? Then slow release granules are the ideal choice.
Whatever your choice, both liquid and slow release nutrients will give your plants the right energy to flourish. So give your houseplants what they deserve and watch them grow!
