Do you need to fertilize your houseplants? 

When you’re a plant parent, you want to do everything right. So it makes sense that you want to know how to fertilize your houseplants with an indoor plant fertilizer. But can you have too much of a good thing? Is there a special kind of plant fertilizer you need? 

We checked in with one of our growers to get some answers and set you up for success so you’ll know how to fertilize indoor plants. 

Why Do Plants Need Fertilizer? 

Plants need minerals and other elements found in their soil. Fertilizer can be used to provide these nutrients in a pellet or liquid form. 

Wayne says, “Just as humans need to eat, plants require different elements found in fertilizers and water to stay healthy and vital.” 

What Are Signs I Need to Fertilize? 

Your houseplant leaves the greenhouse with nutrient-rich soil and will absorb minerals from the soil when you water. But sometimes your plant will show signs of a nutrient deficiency that requires fertilizer to correct. 

Wayne says, “Chlorosis or yellowing of the leaves indicates a nutrient deficiency.” 

If you notice your plant starting to yellow or become pale, it might be a good idea to add some balanced fertilizer. 

What’s the Best Houseplant Fertilizer? 

Unfortunately there’s not one single answer, because each plant will have different requirements. Wayne’s advice is very surprising - he says the best fertilizer for your plant might not be something you need to go out and buy at all. 

“Unless you have experience with fertilizer use, you’re better off using city water. Using a chemical fertilizer increases the risk of burning your plant’s foliage or roots. The minerals in tap water are balanced and will add the minerals needed to the soil without the risk of over-fertilization.”

In the event of a severe deficiency, however, head to your local garden center and they can help you find the right blend of fertilizer for your plant. We recommend diluting to ¼ or ½ strength to reduce the risk of burning. A little will go a long way! 

For Fiddle Leaf Figs, we recommend the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource’s specialized fertilizer. 

PS. When in doubt, email or DM us, and we’ll check with Wayne to get you a solid recommendation for your plant’s needs. Send us a photo for a proper diagnosis! 

When to Fertilize an Indoor Plant

Like Wayne said, your plant should be fine as long as you water regularly with water that contains minerals. If you water with distilled water, you’re not adding any new nutrients so try switching to spring water if you want to avoid tap. 

You can fertilize when there are signs of a nutrient deficiency in your houseplant (yellowing leaves) or once or twice in the growing season in spring and summer. 

Be aware: Fertilizer is not an everyday multivitamin for your plants! It should be used sparingly when your plant needs an extra boost. 

Reach Out with Questions

We hope these tips helped you understand how to fertilize indoor plants. If you think your plant needs fertilizer, send us a photo on Instagram @wild_interiors or email info@wildinteriors.com for a recommendation on what to do next.