Jasmine plants, like all flowering species, require a balanced diet of macronutrients and micronutrients to thrive. The primary macronutrients—nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K)—play distinct roles: nitrogen promotes leafy growth, phosphorus supports root development and flowering, and potassium enhances overall plant health and disease resistance. Micronutrients such as iron, magnesium, and calcium are also critical for chlorophyll production and cellular functions. Jasmine prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0), which ensures optimal nutrient uptake.
For jasmine, a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-10 is ideal during the growing season. Organic options like compost, worm castings, or fish emulsion provide slow-release nutrients and improve soil structure. For potted jasmine, a diluted liquid fertilizer (half-strength) prevents root burn. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they may inhibit blooming by diverting energy to foliage growth. In winter, reduce or pause fertilization to align with the plant's dormant phase.
Active Growth (Spring–Summer): Fertilize every 4–6 weeks to support vigorous growth and flowering. For container-grown jasmine, increase frequency to every 2–3 weeks with diluted fertilizer due to faster nutrient depletion. Pre-Flowering (Late Spring): Switch to a phosphorus-rich formula (e.g., 5-10-5) to encourage bud formation. Dormancy (Fall–Winter): Reduce fertilization to once every 8–10 weeks or stop entirely, as the plant’s metabolic activity slows.
Always water the soil thoroughly before applying fertilizer to prevent root damage. For granular fertilizers, scatter evenly around the drip line (the area under the outermost branches) and lightly incorporate into the topsoil. Liquid fertilizers should be applied directly to moist soil, avoiding foliage to minimize burn. For organic amendments like compost, layer 1–2 inches atop the soil and gently mix in. Potted jasmine benefits from a slow-release fertilizer pellet mixed into the potting medium at the start of the season.
Over-Fertilization: Yellowing or browning leaf tips, stunted growth, or salt crusts on soil indicate excess nutrients. Flush the soil with water to leach out salts and skip the next scheduled feeding. Under-Fertilization: Pale leaves, sparse blooms, and weak stems suggest nutrient deficiency. Gradually increase feeding frequency or switch to a more targeted formula (e.g., bloom boosters for poor flowering).
Adjust fertilization based on climate and light exposure. Jasmine in full sun may require more frequent feeding than shaded plants. In humid regions, ensure proper drainage to prevent nutrient runoff. During droughts, reduce fertilizer strength to avoid stressing the plant. Always observe the plant’s response and tweak the regimen accordingly—healthy jasmine will exhibit dark green leaves, abundant blooms, and steady growth.
