The umbrella fir - this exotic-looking conifer from Asia is on the Red List of endangered plant species. If that's not a good reason to care for it properly, perhaps its beautiful appearance will be. What needs to be taken into account when fertilizing?
How should you properly fertilize an umbrella fir?
Fertilize your umbrella fir from April onwards with a complete, lime-free fertilizer that also contains trace elements such as iron and zinc. Container plants should be fertilized more frequently and watered thoroughly after fertilization. Young umbrella firs also benefit from a dose of Epsom s alt.
Fertilizing – no need
You don't necessarily have to fertilize this shallow-rooted plant. But fertilizing has several advantages:
- better, faster growth
- increases resistance to diseases and pests
- more flowers and therefore more exceptionally decorative cone fruits
You should definitely fertilize your umbrella fir if its growth has changed for the worse. Even if the needles suddenly turn yellow, fertilization makes sense. Umbrella firs generally need nutrient-rich soil to thrive.
Suitable fertilizers for the umbrella fir
A complete fertilizer should be used, because the umbrella fir doesn't just need nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus. She also places emphasis on trace elements such as iron and zinc. It is also important to use lime-free fertilizers, as the umbrella fir prefers acidic soils. For example, use:
- mature compost
- Stinging nettle manure
- a special long-term fertilizer for fir trees
When should you fertilize?
The first fertilizer application of the year should not be made before March. It is best to fertilize first in April. Then the vegetation phase of the umbrella fir really begins. Fertilize sparingly every 4 to 6 weeks. It is important to remember to fertilize potted plants more often than outdoor plants and to water them thoroughly after fertilizing.
Yellow and brown needles – signs of nutrient deficiency?
If you notice sooner or later that the needles of your umbrella fir are turning yellow or brown, you should question whether or not to fertilize. In addition to dryness, yellow to brown needles usually indicate a nutrient deficiency. The brown parts no longer recover. You can cut them off.
Tip
Young umbrella firs are happy to receive a gift of Epsom s alt. The Epsom s alt makes them less sensitive to frost in winter.
