Fertilizing Your Angel Plant:
The Dos and Don’ts

Angel plants, also known as caladiums, are a popular houseplant due to their stunning variegated leaves. To keep them looking their best, it’s important to fertilize them correctly. In this article, we’ll go over the dos and don’ts of fertilizing your angel plant.

DO: Use a Balanced Fertilizer

When it comes to fertilizing your angel plant, you want to use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This will provide your plant with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

DON’T: Over-Fertilize

While fertilizing is important, over-fertilizing can actually harm your angel plant. Too much fertilizer can cause leaf burn and even kill the plant. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging and never exceed the recommended amount.

DO: Fertilize During the Growing Season

Angel plants are dormant during the winter months, so there’s no need to fertilize during this time. Instead, fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). This will give your plant the nutrients it needs to produce new growth and maintain its beautiful leaves.

DON’T: Fertilize Newly Planted Angel Plants

If you’ve just planted a new angel plant, hold off on fertilizing for at least two weeks. The plant needs time to acclimate to its new environment before it can handle the stress of fertilization.

DO: Water Before Fertilizing

Before applying fertilizer, make sure to water your angel plant thoroughly. This will help prevent fertilizer burn and ensure that the nutrients are evenly distributed throughout the soil.

DON’T: Fertilize Dry Soil

If you apply fertilizer to dry soil, it can cause the nutrients to become concentrated in certain areas and potentially harm the roots. Always water before applying fertilizer to ensure that the nutrients are evenly distributed.

DO: Use Organic Fertilizer

Organic fertilizers are a great option for angel plants because they provide slow-release nutrients that won’t burn the leaves or roots. Look for organic fertilizers that are specifically formulated for houseplants.

DON’T: Use Too Much Nitrogen

While nitrogen is an important nutrient for plant growth, too much can actually harm your angel plant. Too much nitrogen can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of root growth, making the plant more susceptible to disease and pests.

FAQ

How often should I fertilize my angel plant?

You should fertilize your angel plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

Can I use regular garden fertilizer on my angel plant?

No, regular garden fertilizer is not recommended for angel plants. Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer instead.

Can I use too little fertilizer on my angel plant?

While it’s important not to over-fertilize your angel plant, using too little can also be detrimental to its health. Make sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging and provide your plant with adequate nutrition.

Should I fertilize my angel plant in winter?

No, there’s no need to fertilize your angel plant during winter when it’s dormant. Wait until spring when it begins to actively grow again.

Can I use compost as fertilizer for my angel plant?

Yes, compost can be used as a slow-release organic fertilizer for your angel plant. Just make sure it’s well-aged and broken down before applying it to your plant.