Mix these ingredients and scatter around the rhododendrons. Shrubs will take flowers
Rhododendrons have their own requirements and ingredients, thanks to which they grow better. They do not like excess calcium in soil, however, like hydrangeas, they require nitrogen fertilization in spring. This is a very important ingredient in. It stimulates and extends flowering processes. Strengthens root systems and participates in photosynthesis processes. Rhododendrons should also be nourished with fertilizers rich in phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and iron.
This homemade nutrient for rhododendrons will provide the bushes with the nutrients they need and make the plant more resistant to diseases and. All you have to do is mix coffee coffee grounds and corner meal and spread around the bushes. Horned flour is a natural fertilizer obtained from cattle horns. It is rich primarily in nitrogen. Coffee coffee grounds are a popular way of fertilizing many plants. They contain, among others, nitrogen, calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and chrome. This homemade nutrient for rhododendrons is best used in early spring – at the turn of February and March. Thanks to this, they will gradually release into the soil and supply the bush.
Why is spring fertilization so important?
Spring is a time of intensive growth and development of rhododendrons. After winter, the bushes need the right dose of nutrients to regenerate, create new shoots and tie flower buds. Proper fertilization during this period:
- Strengthens the root system: a healthy root system is the basis for good nutrients and water.
- Stimulates growth: fertilization provides energy needed to produce new shoots and leaves.
- It provides abundant flowering: appropriate nutrients, especially phosphorus and potassium, are necessary for forming flower buds and intensive flowering.
- Increases resistance to diseases and pests: well -nourished plants are more resistant to stress and attacks of pathogens.
How to fertilize rhododendrons in spring?
Rhododendrons, as acidophilic plants, require special fertilizers with acidic reaction (pH 4.5-5.5). Various types of fertilizers designed especially for these bushes are available:
- Mineral fertilizers: These are fertilizers with fast effects that provide plants with concentrated doses of nutrients. Choose multi -component fertilizers containing nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and microelements such as iron (Fe), magnesium (MG), Manganese (MN) and BOR (B). Look for fertilizers with the inscription “For rhododendrons” or “for acidophilic plants”.
- Organic fertilizers: These are fertilizers with a slower effect, which gradually release nutrients to the soil. They improve soil structure and stimulate the development of microorganisms. For fertilization of rhododendrons, you can use compost, manure (composed), corneum or humic fertilizers.
- Long-acting fertilizers: these are fertilizers that release nutrients gradually for a long time (e.g. 3-6 months). They ensure constant supply of plants with nutrients and eliminate the need for frequent fertilization.
When and how to fertilize rhododendrons in spring?
The best time for spring fertilization of rhododendrons is the turn of March and April, which is just after the frosts and the start of vegetation. You can also use the second dose of fertilizer in May, after flowering, to support plant regeneration.
Check the soil pH: Make sure the soil has an appropriate acid reaction (pH 3.5-5.5). This can be checked with a special pH meter or reflect the soil sample for analysis in the laboratory. If necessary, you will curl the soil, e.g. with granulated sulfur or acid peat.
Mulling: mulching rhododendrons with pine bark, acid peat or needle helps maintain adequate soil moisture, acidifies it and protects the roots from overheating and freezing.
Plant observation: Watch Rododendrons regularly to detect any shortages of nutrients early. Symptoms of deficiencies may include yellowing of leaves (chlorose), growth inhibition, poor flowering or falling flower buds.
Avoid calcium -containing fertilizers: rhododendrons do not tolerate calcium, so avoid fertilizers containing this element.
