When I planted my first batch of indoor plants in my previous apartment’s balcony (yep, that’s right), I thought all they needed was a bit of water and sunlight to grow optimally. Oh boy, was I wrong…
Soon, I noticed my plants wilting, shedding leaves, and losing their vibrant color. That’s when I learned the true magic of fertilizing! Now, with the right nutrients, my backyard garden is thriving and my plants have never looked happier in my new home!
If you’re confused between different kinds of fertilizers and when to use them, don’t worry because this article is for you.
Indoor Plant Care 101: Top Fertilizers
Here’s a comprehensive guide on the top fertilizers you can use for your indoor plants to promote happier, healthier growth:
5 – Fish Emulsion
As the name suggests, fish emulsion is made from fish byproducts, meaning it’s rich in nitrogen and trace minerals. This fertilizer is rather fast-acting and typically available in liquid form.
It encourages lush, leafy growth and improves foliage, making it ideal for houseplants struggling with leaf-related issues.
Best For: Indoor plants like ferns, pothos, snake plants, and dracaenas can benefit from fish emulsion as it encourages vibrant foliage growth and aids with efficient root system development.
4 – Bone Meal
Bone meal is finely ground powder made from animal bones. It’s packed with essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, making it ideal for strengthening root systems and encouraging healthy, vibrant blooms.
Another great thing about bone meal is that it’s slow to break down which translates to a long-lasting supply of nutrients for your plants.
Best For: If your indoor plants are struggling to flower or have very dull-looking blooms, bone meal can generally help with that. It will also strengthen their roots as well as support the overall growth and development of the houseplants.
3 – Epsom Salt
For magnesium and sulfur, the general consensus is Epsom salt. It’s a natural source and helps with combating magnesium deficiencies which may present themselves in the form of yellowing leaves.
Sulfur promotes overall plant growth and aids in disease resistance whereas magnesium makes the process of photosynthesis a lot smoother and efficient. Both nutrients are crucial for plant health.
Best For: Plants like geraniums and peace lilies are likely to suffer from magnesium deficiencies and have problems like discolored leaves or stunted growth. Epsom salt can help with fulfilling their high magnesium demands, ensuring they grow stronger and healthier.
2 – Molasses
Yes, you heard that right! Molasses is commonly used as a natural fertilizer since it’s a sugar source that feeds and nourishes beneficial microbes in the soil.
Not only does it enhance soil health but also improves the rate and efficiency of nutrient absorption. The sugar in the molasses also serves as a quick energy source for plants.
Best For: Molasses is generally best suited for the small percentage of houseplants that need improvement in their overall soil ecosystem. If you believe your soil needs a boost in microbial activity, definitely give molasses a shot.
1 – Eggshells
I’ve regularly used eggshells as fertilizer, whether it’s for my indoor plants or entire outdoor patches. They’re an excellent source of calcium which can help with root development and pH balancing in plants.
Best For: Various flowering and fruiting plants can benefit from a little extra calcium that would come from crushed eggshells. It can prevent diseases like blossom-end rot as well as balance the pH in slightly more acidic environments to accommodate better growth.
Final Words
Now that I’ve learned the importance of fertilizing, my plants are thriving like never before. From vibrant leaves to beautiful blooms, the right nutrients make all the difference.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardening professional or just starting out, I hope these natural fertilizers help your plants grow healthier and happier, just like mine!
