From our roots outward, our health is a direct reflection of the soil's nourishment. We require a balanced diet, primarily defined by the NPK ratio—Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K). Nitrogen is crucial for our vibrant green foliage; it fuels the growth of our leaves, which are the solar panels that power our entire system. Phosphorus is the key to our magnificent reproductive display. It supports strong root development and, most importantly, promotes prolific and vibrant blooming. Potassium (or Potash) is our overall wellness mineral. It regulates our internal functions, improves disease resistance, and ensures the strength of our stems to hold our beautiful flower heads high.
To truly thrive, we require different nutritional focuses at various stages of our growth. A water-soluble fertilizer with a balanced formula, such as a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14, is a good general maintenance food. However, to maximize our flowering potential, a formula higher in phosphorus is ideal. Look for a ratio where the middle number (P) is highest, like a 15-7-15 or a 12-4-8, often labeled as a "Bloom Booster." This provides ample potassium for our health while supplying the extra phosphorus that directs our energy into creating the spectacular blooms you admire. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they will push us to produce excessive leaves at the expense of flowers.
Our feeding needs are directly tied to our growth cycles and light exposure. During our primary growing and flowering season—typically from early spring until late fall—we are actively photosynthesizing and blooming. This is when we are most hungry. Please feed us every two to three weeks with a diluted solution of the recommended water-soluble fertilizer. This consistent nourishment supports the constant production of new flower stalks. In the winter months, when light levels drop and our growth naturally slows or enters a semi-dormant state, you must cease fertilization. Our metabolic processes slow, and adding nutrients at this time can lead to toxic salt buildup in our soil, damaging our delicate root systems.
How you feed us is almost as important as what you feed us. Always apply fertilizer to our soil when it is already moist. Applying a concentrated fertilizer to dry soil can cause root burn, shocking our system and hindering nutrient uptake. Water us thoroughly a few hours before feeding. Dilute the fertilizer to half or three-quarter strength, as recommended on the package for continuous feeding. Apply it directly to the soil around our base, avoiding our crown and foliage, as leftover fertilizer on our leaves can cause sunscald or fungal issues. Ensure we are planted in a well-draining potting mix; even perfect fertilization cannot compensate for soggy, oxygen-starved roots.
