Fertilizing Your Angels Trumpet Plant:
The Dos and Don’ts

Angels Trumpet, also known as Brugmansia, is a beautiful and exotic plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is native to South America but is now grown all over the world. The plant is known for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers that come in shades of white, yellow, pink, orange, and red. To keep your Angels Trumpet plant healthy and blooming, it is important to fertilize it regularly. In this article, we will discuss the dos and don’ts of fertilizing your Angels Trumpet plant.

Dos

Use a Balanced Fertilizer

The first thing you need to do when fertilizing your Angels Trumpet plant is to choose the right fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) is ideal for the plant. You can use a slow-release granular fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer diluted in water.

Fertilize Every Two Weeks

Angels Trumpet plants are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization to promote growth and flowering. You should fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). During the dormant season (fall and winter), you can reduce the frequency of fertilization to once a month.

Apply Fertilizer to Soil

When applying fertilizer to your Angels Trumpet plant, make sure you apply it to the soil rather than the leaves. This will help prevent burning or damage to the leaves. Use a garden fork or rake to gently work the fertilizer into the soil around the base of the plant.

Water After Fertilizing

After applying fertilizer, water your Angels Trumpet plant thoroughly. This will help distribute the nutrients throughout the soil and prevent burning.

Don’ts

Over-Fertilize

Over-fertilization can be harmful to your Angels Trumpet plant. Too much fertilizer can cause leaf burn, stunted growth, and even death. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid applying too much.

Fertilize During Dormant Season

During the dormant season, Angels Trumpet plants do not require as much fertilizer as they do during the growing season. Over-fertilizing during this time can result in excessive growth that may not be able to sustain itself once spring arrives.

Use High-Nitrogen Fertilizer

While nitrogen is essential for growth, using a high-nitrogen fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering. Instead, use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of NPK.

Ignore Signs of Over-Fertilization

If you notice signs of over-fertilization such as yellowing or dropping leaves, stunted growth, or burnt tips on leaves, stop fertilizing immediately. Flush out excess fertilizer from the soil by watering thoroughly.

FAQ

How often should I fertilize my Angels Trumpet plant?

You should fertilize your Angels Trumpet plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and once a month during the dormant season (fall and winter).

What kind of fertilizer should I use?

Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). You can use a slow-release granular fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer diluted in water.

Can I fertilize my Angels Trumpet plant with compost?

Yes, you can use compost as a natural fertilizer for your Angels Trumpet plant. However, make sure it is well-rotted before using it.

Is it okay to fertilize my Angels Trumpet plant when it’s flowering?

Yes, you can fertilize your Angels Trumpet plant when it’s flowering. In fact, regular fertilization during this time will help promote more blooms.

How do I know if I’m over-fertilizing my Angels Trumpet plant?

Signs of over-fertilization include yellowing or dropping leaves, stunted growth, and burnt tips on leaves. If you notice any of these signs, stop fertilizing immediately and flush out excess fertilizer from the soil by watering thoroughly.

In conclusion, fertilizing your Angels Trumpet plant is essential for promoting growth and flowering. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your plant stays healthy and beautiful all year round.