Optimal Fertilizers for Bougainvillea: Application Methods and Timing
In the world of tropical gardening, Bougainvillea plants are a popular choice for their vibrant blooms and lush foliage. However, these plants are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization to maintain their health and promote abundant blooming. Here's a guide to the best fertilizers for Bougainvillea, based on research and testing.
Firstly, it's essential to use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio around 2-1-3 for Bougainvillea. This ratio supports strong flowering while avoiding excessive leaf growth, which can occur with high nitrogen levels. Such fertilizers should be applied every 15 days during the flowering period for optimal results.
One such fertilizer is the Dr. Earth blend palm fertilizer, which contains additional beneficial soil microbes to encourage flowering. It's important to note that while the Dr. Earth blend palm fertilizer has a high nitrogen content (NPK value of 6-4-6), it may promote the growth of worms and undesirable insects in a moist environment. This fertilizer is available in 1 and 4 pounds packs and is among the best organic fertilizers.
Another excellent option is Jack's Classic No.1.5 Fertilizer 20-20-20, which contains a balanced NPK ratio of 20-20-20 for enhanced growth and vibrant colors. This fertilizer is people and pets safe and is a popular choice among gardeners.
Scotts Flower Slow Release Food 10-10-10 is an all-purpose fertilizer that feeds flowers and vegetables, with a balanced NPK ratio of 10-10-10 and a slow-release formula that keeps feeding for 2 months. This makes it a convenient choice for those who want to fertilize less frequently.
For those who prefer using fertilizer spikes, Jobe's Fertilizer Spikes For Flowers 8-9-12 and Jobe's Camellia & Rhododendron Fertilizer Spikes 9-8-7 are good options. These slow-release fertilizers are easy to insert in the soil and keep feeding for 2 months. The former is specifically designed for flowers, while the latter is suitable for plants that require high nitrogen content, such as camellias and rhododendrons.
It's crucial to remember that Bougainvillea plants require regular fertilization to prevent decay, as they quickly deplete soil nutrients. Additionally, in calcareous or alkaline soils, it's essential to include micronutrients (especially iron) to prevent chlorosis.
Lastly, the market offers several types of bougainvillea fertilizers with balanced NPK ratios for optimal growth. The Dr. Earth blend palm fertilizer is eco-friendly and enlisted in the list of OMRI fertilizers, making it a sustainable choice for gardeners who prioritize environmental responsibility.
In summary, to ensure the health and vibrant blooms of your Bougainvillea plants, choose a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio around 2-1-3, apply it every 15 days during flowering, include micronutrients (especially iron) to prevent chlorosis, and avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen. With the right care and the right fertilizer, your Bougainvillea plants will thrive and bring beauty to your garden.
- To promote healthy growth and blooming in home-and-garden spaces, consider opting for the Dr. Earth blend palm fertilizer, which has an NPK ratio of 6-4-6 and offers additional soil microbes to encourage flowering.
- A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 2-1-3, like Scotts Flower Slow Release Food 10-10-10, should be applied every 15 days during the flowering period to ensure lush lifestyle greenery such as Bougainvillea plants maintain their health and produce abundant blooms.
