You can recognize a healthy summer lilac (Buddleja) by its strong green leaves, lush growth and numerous flowers. However, these characteristics only appear if the shrub is regularly supplied with sufficient nutrients, otherwise fewer flowers will form and the leaves will turn yellow.

Buddleia likes natural fertilizer

Fertilize summer lilacs in the garden

Buddleia planted in the garden is best supplied with natural fertiliser, whereby horn shavings (32.93€) or flour, but also compost and manure are very suitable.

Initial fertilization at planting

When planting, you can add a handful of horn shavings and some compost to the excavation. This will give the young shrub the strength it needs to get started and help it grow more easily in its new location.

Fertilize older plants

Older plants should be supplied with organic fertilizer twice a year. Start with a first dose of compost and horn shavings (32.93€) before they sprout in March, the second dose is finally in June. Carefully work the fertilizer into the root area, being careful not to damage the root strands, some of which run just below the surface. If you prefer to use complete fertilizer, you can also fertilize twice a year. However, make sure to choose a flowering plant fertilizer that is low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus - this will ensure beautiful blooms.

Fertilize summer lilacs in the pot

If the summer lilac is cultivated in a planter, fertilize it about every two weeks between March and September with a liquid fertilizer for flowering plants. Again, the fertilizer should contain less nitrogen and more phosphorus. Nitrogen ensures stronger growth of the shoots and leaves, so that the shrub puts less energy into the desired flowering. If possible, give the fertilizer together with the irrigation water.

Soil or substrate must not be too rich

Even if summer lilac has to be fertilized regularly, it should not be on too rich soil. The shrub feels most comfortable on a sandy, well-drained substrate - as the numerous specimens that thrive on embankments clearly show.

tips

Watering the summer lilac also needs to be learned: the shrub should not dry out, but it must not be watered over either. It is always best to do a finger test before watering to determine if it is necessary. On very hot summer days or during dry periods, planted specimens can tolerate additional watering - but this depends on the location and the soil. Potted plants, on the other hand, always depend on a regular water supply.

Category:

Herbs