Fertilizing Your Abutilon Plant:
The Dos and Don’ts

Abutilon plants, also known as the flowering maple or Chinese lantern, are popular houseplants due to their stunning blooms and ease of care. However, to keep your abutilon plant healthy and thriving, it’s essential to fertilize it regularly. In this article, we’ll cover the dos and don’ts of fertilizing your abutilon plant.

Dos

1. Do choose the right fertilizer

When it comes to fertilizing your abutilon plant, it’s crucial to choose the right type of fertilizer. Abutilons thrive in a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Thus, you need to use a fertilizer that contains a balanced mix of essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

A good option for abutilons is a slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. You can also use an organic fertilizer like fish emulsion or compost tea.

2. Do fertilize during the growing season

Abutilon plants grow actively during the spring and summer months. Hence, it’s best to fertilize them during this period when they need extra nutrients to support their growth and blooming.

You can apply fertilizer once a month during the growing season. However, avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can harm your plant.

3. Do water your plant before fertilizing

Before applying fertilizer to your abutilon plant, ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Watering your plant before fertilizing helps prevent root burn caused by fertilizer salts.

4. Do follow the manufacturer’s instructions

Different fertilizers have different application rates and methods. Hence, always read and follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid over or under-application.

5. Do prune your plant regularly

Pruning your abutilon plant regularly helps promote bushy growth and more abundant blooms. When you prune your plant, you remove any dead or diseased branches that can affect its overall health.

Don’ts

1. Don’t fertilize during the dormant season

Abutilon plants go dormant during the fall and winter months when they need less water and nutrients. Fertilizing during this time can lead to nutrient buildup in the soil, which can harm your plant.

Hence, avoid fertilizing your abutilon plant during its dormant season unless it shows signs of nutrient deficiency like yellowing leaves or stunted growth.

2. Don’t over-fertilize

Over-fertilizing your abutilon plant can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can damage its roots and hinder its growth. Hence, avoid applying too much fertilizer at once or too frequently.

3. Don’t use tap water for fertilization

Tap water contains chlorine and other chemicals that can harm your abutilon plant’s roots when used for fertilization. Instead, use distilled or rainwater to dilute your fertilizer solution.

4. Don’t apply fertilizer directly to the stem or leaves

Fertilizer salts can burn your abutilon plant’s stem or leaves if applied directly to them. Hence, always apply fertilizer to the soil around the base of your plant and avoid getting it on any foliage.

5. Don’t fertilize newly transplanted plants

When you transplant your abutilon plant into a new pot or garden bed, wait for at least two weeks before applying any fertilizer. This allows the roots to establish themselves in their new environment before adding extra nutrients.

FAQ

Q: How often should I fertilize my abutilon plant?

A: You should fertilize your abutilon plant once a month during its growing season (spring/summer).

Q: What is the best fertilizer for abutilon plants?

A: A slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 is a good option for abutilons. You can also use organic fertilizers like fish emulsion or compost tea.

Q: Can I use tap water for fertilization?

A: No, tap water contains chlorine and other chemicals that can harm your abutilon plant’s roots when used for fertilization. Use distilled or rainwater instead.

Q: Should I prune my abutilon plant?

A: Yes, pruning your abutilon plant regularly helps promote bushy growth and more abundant blooms.

Q: Can I fertilize my abutilon plant during its dormant season?

A: No, avoid fertilizing your abutilon plant during its dormant season unless it shows signs of nutrient deficiency like yellowing leaves or stunted growth.

In conclusion, fertilizing your abutilon plant is crucial for its overall health and blooming performance. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your abutilon stays healthy and beautiful all year round.