To understand our nutritional needs, you must first understand where we come from. We are native to the harsh, arid deserts and rocky plains of Southern Africa. Our soil is not rich, loamy, or fertile; it is primarily a mineral-based, gritty, sandy, and incredibly well-draining substrate with very little organic matter. Our entire evolutionary strategy is based on survival in this nutrient-poor environment. We have a highly specialized growth cycle, producing just one or two new sets of leaves per year, and we store all the water and energy we need to do so in our thick, succulent leaf pairs. We are built for austerity, not abundance.
For the vast majority of our caretakers, the answer is a resounding no, we do not need fertilizer. In fact, applying a standard, potent fertilizer formulated for fast-growing houseplants can be actively harmful to us. Our roots are adapted to seek minimal nutrients and are very sensitive to excess salts, which are common in synthetic fertilizers. A buildup of these salts can easily damage our delicate root systems, leading to rot, stunted growth, or even death. The best practice is to simply repot us every 3-5 years into a fresh, appropriate potting mix, which will provide all the minimal nutrients we require.
There is one specific scenario where a very careful and minimal feeding might be considered beneficial. If we have been growing in the same pot for many years and the mineral content of the soil has become completely exhausted, a supplemental feed could help support our growth. If you choose to do this, it must be done with extreme caution. Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for cacti and succulents, as these are lower in nitrogen. Alternatively, a balanced fertilizer (with equal NPK numbers like 5-5-5 or 10-10-10) can be used but must be diluted to a quarter or even half of the recommended strength. This ensures we receive only a tiny, gentle supplement rather than an aggressive nutrient shock.
Timing is absolutely critical. You should only ever consider feeding us during our active growth period, which is typically in the late summer or autumn, after we have fully shed our old leaves and are actively developing our new body. Never fertilize us during our dormant period in the height of summer or during winter, as we are not growing and cannot use the nutrients, which will then harmfully accumulate in the soil. The application method is also key. The soil must be lightly moist before you apply the heavily diluted fertilizer solution. Apply it to the soil, taking great care to avoid getting any on our bodies, as this can cause chemical burns or rot.
