They do have their growth cycle, often slowing down in the winter when plants typically receive less light.
In winter, days are shorter and have lower light levels.
Plants that are growing at a slower rate likely won’t need fertilizer.
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Yet there are nuances to know to determine if reducing how often you fertilize is a good idea.
There can be confusion as the slowed-down growth is commonly referred to as dormancy, explains Hancock.
“Quiescence simply means a slowing or quieting of growth, but it doesn’t stop altogether.”
Dormancy triggers when specific factors are provoked.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to houseplants and fertilizer.
Why Plants Need Fertilizer
Fertilizer provides plants with a nutrient boost that helps them grow.
“Fertilizing houseplants is helpful to keep them happy and growing,” explains Hancock.
“You don’t really don’t need to fertilize them a lot to keep them happy.”
So how often should you fertilize houseplants?
“Most common houseplants do well with a quarterly seasonal system of fertilizer,” she says.
Do I Need to Fertilize in the Winter?
The more light a plant receives, the more it will grow.
Fertilizing in winter comes down to knowing your houseplants and their needs.
Hancock fertilizes houseplants when they are growing quickly, not when they are in a slower growth mode.
“It just comes down to what your plant actually needs.”
If you prefer fertilizing year-round, Landau suggests diluting the mix to 12 to 14 strength in the winter.
Can You Over-Fertilize Your Houseplants?
Fertilizing your houseplants year-round without adjusting the amount could have negative consequences for your indoor plants.
