Fertilizing Your Angel Hair Plant:
The Dos and Don’ts

Angel hair plants, also known as Muehlenbeckia complexa or maidenhair vine, are popular houseplants that are easy to care for. They are loved for their delicate, wiry stems and small, round leaves that grow in a dense, bushy pattern. However, like all plants, they require proper fertilization to thrive. In this article, we will discuss the dos and don’ts of fertilizing your angel hair plant.

Dos

Do use a balanced fertilizer

Angel hair plants require a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). A balanced fertilizer will provide all the essential nutrients your plant needs to grow healthy and strong. Look for a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.

Do fertilize during the growing season

The growing season for angel hair plants is from spring to fall. During this time, your plant is actively growing and requires more nutrients to support its growth. Fertilize your angel hair plant once every two weeks during the growing season to ensure it has all the nutrients it needs.

Do dilute the fertilizer

When fertilizing your angel hair plant, always dilute the fertilizer before applying it to the soil. Mix the fertilizer with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Applying undiluted fertilizer can burn the roots of your plant and cause damage.

Do apply fertilizer evenly

When applying fertilizer to your angel hair plant, make sure you do so evenly around the base of the plant. Avoid getting fertilizer on the leaves or stems as this can cause damage.

Do water your plant after fertilizing

After fertilizing your angel hair plant, give it a good watering. This will help to distribute the fertilizer evenly throughout the soil and prevent it from burning the roots.

Don’ts

Don’t over-fertilize

Over-fertilizing your angel hair plant can be just as harmful as not fertilizing it at all. Too much fertilizer can cause the roots to burn and damage the plant’s growth. Stick to fertilizing once every two weeks during the growing season, and avoid fertilizing during the dormant period in winter.

Don’t use a high-nitrogen fertilizer

While nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth, using a high-nitrogen fertilizer can cause your angel hair plant to produce too much foliage at the expense of flowers. Stick to a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Don’t fertilize when your plant is stressed

If your angel hair plant is stressed due to factors such as underwatering or overwatering, pests, or disease, avoid fertilizing it until it has recovered. Fertilizing a stressed plant can further weaken it and cause more damage.

Don’t apply fertilizer to dry soil

Applying fertilizer to dry soil can cause it to become concentrated in one area and burn the roots of your angel hair plant. Always water your plant before applying fertilizer to ensure that it is evenly distributed throughout the soil.

FAQ

How often should I fertilize my angel hair plant?

Fertilize your angel hair plant once every two weeks during the growing season (spring to fall). Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period in winter.

What type of fertilizer should I use for my angel hair plant?

Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.

Can I use organic fertilizer for my angel hair plant?

Yes, you can use organic fertilizers such as compost or worm castings for your angel hair plant. However, make sure they are well-composted and diluted before applying them to avoid burning the roots.

Is it okay to fertilize my angel hair plant when it is flowering?

Yes, you can fertilize your angel hair plant when it is flowering. However, avoid using a high-nitrogen fertilizer as this can cause it to produce too much foliage at the expense of flowers.

Can I use leftover coffee grounds as fertilizer for my angel hair plant?

Coffee grounds can be used as a natural fertilizer for some plants but are not recommended for angel hair plants. They can make the soil too acidic and damage the roots. Stick to using a balanced commercial fertilizer instead.

In conclusion, fertilizing your angel hair plant is crucial for its health and growth. Follow these dos and don’ts to ensure that you provide your plant with all the essential nutrients it needs without causing any damage. With proper care and attention, your angel hair plant will thrive and bring beauty into your home for years to come.