Perennials require at least one dose of fertilizer per year. In this context, organic long-term fertilizers have proven their worth. This also includes horn shavings. Our guide provides you with information about the popular fertilizer and explains how to use it correctly.

Horn shavings are not for vegetarians

Why perennials need organic long-term fertilizer

The main advantage of perennials is that they sprout again in spring year after year. It goes without saying that this process takes a lot of energy. Accordingly, the plants require annual support in the form of nutrients. You ensure this by administering fertilizers.

For the nutrient supply of perennials, preference should be given to organic fertilizers that work over a longer period of time and stimulate the soil to release nutrients. The following fertilizers are recommended for annual basic fertilization:

  • compost
  • blood meal
  • bone meal
  • animal dung
  • horn shavings

Horn shavings as the preferred fertilizer

Organic long-term fertilizers such as horn shavings (€32.93) provide your perennials with constant nutrients over a relatively long period of time. They are among the traditionally used fertilizers in agriculture and are characterized above all by their ability to optimize soil fertility.

Horn shavings and other long-term fertilizers are slowly decomposed by microorganisms. This creates organic substances that enhance the soil over the long term. The process usually takes a long time, which is why one dose per year is usually sufficient.

The most important property of horn shavings (32.93€) is that they ensure an increased nitrogen content in the soil. Nitrogen is one of the main nutrient elements for perennials and other plants. It is considered the "motor of plant growth".

Extra: Do not use mineral fertilizers

Do not use mineral fertilizers for the annual basic fertilization.

  • make the plants grow too fast
  • Perennials become unstable and can break
  • Water requirements of the plants increase enormously

Fertilize perennials with horn shavings - step by step

  1. Remove any weeds completely - by careful weeding without tools so as not to damage the shallow roots.
  2. Loosen the soil only superficially - with a cultivator or a digging fork. Never loosen deeply (many perennials have shallow roots)!
  3. Work horn shavings into the soil around the perennials. Rake them in lightly.
  4. Water the soil thoroughly.

Basic information on fertilizing perennials

Apply the slow-release fertilizer once a year - in the spring, preferably in early March, after you have cut back the perennials and weeded the bed.

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