It is extremely important to fertilize perennials to ensure adequate nutrient supply. Flowering usually requires a lot of energy for these plants, so they need a constant supply of energy. However, that doesn't mean you have to over-fertilize perennials - quite the opposite. Here you can find out the most important information about fertilizing perennials.
How should you properly fertilize perennials?
Perennials require moderate fertilization with nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Start with nitrogen-focused fertilizing in early spring, followed by balanced fertilizing in late spring and potassium-focused fertilizing in early summer. Use compost or slow-release fertilizer annually for normal perennials, and additional organic perennial fertilizer for magnificent perennials.
Why you should definitely fertilize perennials
As they grow and bloom magnificently, your perennials continually draw nutrients from the soil. In order to replace or replenish these, fertilizing is an indispensable care measure.
But: Perennials are not plants that need huge amounts of fertilizer. In fact, the various species often make do 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 flower formation.
Potassium
Potassium ensures strong plant tissue in the perennials.
How to properly fertilize your perennials
Depending on the specific perennials in question, annual fertilization is sufficient or several doses are necessary.
For normal perennial plantings, one dose of well-rotted compost per year is sufficient. Instead of compost you can also use slow-release fertilizer.
If you are dealing with magnificent perennials, such as asters, phlox or delphiniums, additional fertilizer is necessary. In this case, it is best to use organic perennial fertilizer (€11.00 on Amazon). 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 onwards you should no longer give your perennials fertilizers, otherwise the plants' sensitivity to cold may increase.
The following procedure has proven successful:
- Early spring: fertilize with emphasis on nitrogen
- Late spring: fertilize in a balanced way
- Early summer: fertilize with potassium emphasis
In this way, the perennials can form a robust tissue in autumn, which is essential for overwintering without damage.
Fertilize in moderation
The motto is: Always fertilize your perennials in moderation. If you give the plants too much fertilizer, the plants may burn.
Note: An excess of nitrogen swells the tissue - as a result, it becomes very soft and therefore susceptible to pests and diseases.
Tip
Help with deficiency symptoms or poor flowering with fast-acting liquid fertilizer.
