It is extremely important to fertilize perennials to ensure an adequate supply of nutrients. Flowering usually costs these plants a lot of energy, so they need a constant supply of energy. However, that doesn't mean you have to over-fertilize perennials - quite the opposite. Here you will find the most important information about the fertilization of perennials.

Perennials should be fertilized one to three times a year depending on their nutrient requirements

Why you should definitely fertilize perennials

As your perennials grow and flower lavishly, they continuously draw nutrients from the soil. In order to replace or refill them, fertilizing is an indispensable care measure.

But: perennials are not plants that need huge amounts of fertilizer. In fact, the different types are often content with relatively little. However, it is essential to ensure this minimum.

Which nutrients are essential for perennials

When fertilizing perennials, three substances are particularly important:

  • nitrogen
  • phosphorus
  • potassium

nitrogen

Nitrogen promotes the growth of leaves, shoots and roots.

phosphorus

Phosphorus is crucial for flowering.

potassium

Potassium ensures firm plant tissue in the perennials.

How to properly fertilize your perennials

Depending on which perennials are involved, annual fertilization is sufficient or several doses are required.

For normal perennial plantings, one dose of well-rotted compost per year is sufficient. You can also use slow-release fertilizer instead of compost.

If you are dealing with magnificent perennials, such as asters, phlox or delphiniums, additional fertilizers are necessary. In this case, it is best to use organic perennial fertilizer. Dose according to the manufacturer's instructions on the package.

The right time to fertilize perennials

Fertilize your perennials between early spring (March) and early summer (July).

Attention: From August you should no longer give your perennials any fertilizer, otherwise the plants may become more sensitive to the cold.

The following procedure has proven itself:

  • Early spring: fertilize with an emphasis on nitrogen
  • Late spring: fertilize in a balanced way
  • Early summer: fertilize with an emphasis on potassium

In this way, the perennials can form a robust tissue in autumn, which is essential for overwintering without damage.

Fertilize moderately!

The motto is: Always fertilize your perennials in moderation. If you give the plants too much fertilizer, you may burn the plants.

Note: An excess of nitrogen swells the tissue - as a result it becomes very soft and thus susceptible to pests and diseases.

tips

Help with deficiency symptoms or poor flowering with fast-acting liquid fertilizer.

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