Which Fertiliser for Which Plant? The Complete Guide
The right fertiliser depends on the type of plant: foliage plants like a fertiliser rich in nitrogen, flowering plants one rich in potassium and phosphorus, cacti and succulents one low in nitrogen, and citrus a dedicated fertiliser. Among natural options, nettle fermented extract boosts growth and comfrey fermented extract flowering. Fertilise from spring to the end of summer.
Too much fertiliser, the wrong one, at the wrong time… fertilising is where people go wrong the most. Here is a clear guide to give each plant exactly what it needs.
Why does a suitable fertiliser change everything?
Potting mix runs out within a few months. Without a top-up, the plant turns yellow and stagnates. But a badly chosen fertiliser (too much nitrogen on a cactus, for example) does as much damage as a deficiency. Hence the importance of targeting.
Understanding NPK in 30 seconds
Three letters sum up every fertiliser:
- N (nitrogen) — foliage and growth.
- P (phosphorus) — roots and flowering.
- K (potassium) — flowers, fruit and resistance.
Which fertiliser for which plant?
| Plant | Need | Recommended fertiliser |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor foliage plants | Nitrogen | Houseplant fertiliser |
| Flowering plants | Potassium / phosphorus | Comfrey fermented extract |
| Orchids | Specific | Orchid fertiliser |
| Cacti & succulents | Low in nitrogen | Cactus fertiliser |
| Citrus & Mediterranean plants | Dedicated | Citrus fertiliser |
| All (maintenance) | Balanced | Universal fertiliser / Jungle Boost |
Natural fertilisers: nettle or comfrey?
Fermented plant extracts are the natural fertilisers par excellence: nettle fermented extract, rich in nitrogen, stimulates growth and foliage; comfrey fermented extract, rich in potash, boosts flowering and fruiting. Many gardeners alternate the two depending on the season.
When and how to fertilise?
Fertilise from spring to the end of summer, during growth, and stop in autumn-winter. Always on damp potting mix (never on a dry substrate) and without overdosing: better less, but regularly. Find the full rhythm in our care calendar.
FAQ: fertilisers for plants
Which fertiliser for foliage plants?
A fertiliser rich in nitrogen, which supports foliage and growth. Nettle fermented extract is the ideal natural option.
Can you over-fertilise a plant?
Yes: too much fertiliser burns the roots and makes leaves turn yellow or brown. Respect the doses and the season.
How often should you apply fertiliser?
Roughly every 2 to 4 weeks during the growing period, depending on the product and the plant.
- Houseplant & rare plant fertiliser
- Orchid fertiliser · cactus · citrus
- Nettle fermented extract & comfrey fermented extract
- Jungle Boost — universal maintenance.
Healthy plants, 100% natural, made in the Ardèche. 🌿