Fertilizing Tips
Buy the right fertilizer
Using cheap fertilizer is not good because good fertilizer is not cheap. More expensive fertilizers tend to have more nutrients beneficial to plants and less filler elements.
When buying fertilizer, READ THE LABELS! Find out exactly what you're buying and what plants it is best used for.
Buy slow release fertilizer that is effective up to 3 months rather than fertilizer that will be washed away after a few waterings.
Buy the appropriate fertilizer. This will vary from plant to plant. Don't use 20-20-20 thinking that it's better than 2-8-6. Unless you're trying to either grow lawn grass or if you like your plants nice and crispy, DON'T use 20-20-20.
Applying fertilizer
Don't use liquid fertilizers because most contain large quantities of salt which will burn the tips of leaves.
Fertilize in smaller quantities 3-6 times a year rather than a large quantity once a year.
Buy the right soil
Choose the right soil for your plants. Do NOT buy potting soil with fertilizer already in it. Use clean soil and add the appropriate amount of fertilizer.
Use soil that is as close to the plants' native soils as possible. If a plant's native soil is acidic, you don't want to use soil with a pH of 8.
An important thing to remember is that there is no universal fertilizer. Don't expect to get the same results by using the same fertilizer on palms and ferns. If you truly want healthy plants, then you will have to do a little research and find out what a plant's requirements are. The interiorscape is just like anything else; you get out of it what you put into it.
Basic Care - Pruning - Dealing with Pests