- Does Chinese reed have to be fertilized?
- Should I fertilize when planting?
- Does Chinese reed need special fertilizer?
- Do all varieties of Chinese reed need the same care?
Chinese reed is not wrongly considered to be easy to care for. That doesn't mean, however, that this ornamental grass doesn't need any attention. Its nutritional requirements can certainly be rated as high. However, the Chinese reed does not do too much work.

Does Chinese reed have to be fertilized?
The need for fertilization depends on the nutrient supply in the soil. In very nutrient-rich, humus-rich soil, practically no fertilizer is needed. However, this is rarely the case. Regular fertilizing is therefore recommended. This is done either regularly or shortly before budding in spring with a long-term fertilizer.
Should I fertilize when planting?
Fertilization when planting the Chinese reed is definitely recommended. If available, put some mature, well-rotted compost directly into the planting hole. Alternatively, use a good organic fertilizer. Plant the Chinese reed in a bucket with new, fresh potting soil, then no fertilizer is required, the soil contains enough nutrients for several months.
Does Chinese reed need special fertilizer?
You can supply all varieties of Chinese reed with a commercially available garden fertilizer. Organic fertilizer is preferable, it promotes soil activity. An organic-mineral fertilizer, for example with guano (€121.99), is often recommended, which is supposed to activate humus formation in the long term. Some bamboo fertilizer, on the other hand, supports the formation of particularly stable culms and an attractive leaf colour.
Do all varieties of Chinese reed need the same care?
Basically, the care of the different varieties of Chinese reed does not differ significantly. All have rather high nutrient requirements, although depending on the size of the particular plant and its location. If this is sunny and the soil is possibly dry, then the Chinese reed needs more water than in the shade or in the moist soil at the edge of the pond.
The essentials in brief:
- high nutrient requirements
- Fertilization required: especially in poor soil or cultivation in tubs
- no fertilization: in the first months after planting and in very nutrient-rich soil
- suitable: long-term fertilizer in spring or mature compost
tips
You do not have to buy any special fertilizer for your Chinese reed, standard organic fertilizer is sufficient.