Fertilizing Your Balfour Aralia Plant: The Dos and Don’ts

The Balfour aralia, also known as Polyscias balfouriana, is a popular tropical houseplant prized for its lush, fern-like foliage. With proper care, this plant can grow into an impressive specimen over time However, fertilizing is one aspect of Balfour aralia care that is often done incorrectly, leading to stressed plants By following some simple dos and don’ts when it comes to fertilizer, you can keep your aralia healthy and thriving.

Why Fertilizer is Important for Balfour Aralia

Fertilizer provides essential nutrients that the Balfour aralia needs to grow strong and produce vibrant new leaves. The three main nutrients that plants require are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Without adequate levels of these macro-nutrients, aralias will show signs of nutrient deficiencies like yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and poor flowering. Fertilizer replenishes the soil with these nutrients on a regular basis.

During the active growing season in spring and summer, aralias need more fertilizer to support new growth. Light levels are also higher at this time of year, so the plants can utilize the added nutrients efficiently. Reducing fertilizer in fall and winter prevents excessive growth when light levels drop. Getting the fertilizer balance right is key to keeping aralias looking their best all year long.

The Dos of Fertilizing Balfour Aralia

Use a Balanced Liquid Fertilizer

Look for a fertilizer where the three numbers on the label are equal or nearly equal, such as 10-10-10. This indicates a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium suitable for Balfour aralias Liquid or water-soluble fertilizers are easiest to apply for indoor plants

Fertilize Every 2 Weeks During Spring and Summer

The active growing season for aralias is from early spring through summer, Fertilize the plant every 2 weeks during this period to support healthy new growth

Always Dilute the Fertilizer

Never apply fertilizer to aralias undiluted or at full strength. This can easily burn the roots. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half or quarter strength before watering it onto the soil.

Apply to Moist Soil

Only apply fertilizer to moist, well-drained soil, never dry soil. Fertilizer salts drawn into dry soil can burn and damage roots. Water the plant thoroughly a day before fertilizing.

Add Supplements Like Epsom Salts

Soil supplements like Epsom salts can provide extra magnesium, an important nutrient for dark green foliage. But use them sparingly, no more than once a month.

Flush the Soil Regularly

Every month, flush the soil with clean water to wash away any built-up fertilizer salts. This prevents fertilizer burn.

The Don’ts of Fertilizing Balfour Aralia

Don’t Overfertilize

Excess fertilizer causes buildup of salts in the soil, leading to root burn. Stick to the recommended dilution and frequency on the fertilizer label. More is not better.

Don’t Fertilize in Fall or Winter

Aralias grow slowly or become dormant in fall and winter. Fertilizing during this time can promote weak growth that is more susceptible to insects and disease.

Don’t Let Fertilizer Touch the Leaves or Stems

Always apply fertilizer directly to the soil, not onto the foliage. Liquid fertilizer can burn and damage leaves and stems if it comes into direct contact with them.

Don’t Use Slow-Release Fertilizer Indoors

While handy for outdoor plants, slow-release fertilizer spikes or pellets can be problematic indoors. It’s harder to regulate the dose and flush away excess salts. Stick to liquid fertilizers.

Don’t Fertilize Newly Repotted Plants

Wait 3-4 weeks after repotting a Balfour aralia before fertilizing it. This gives time for any root damage from repotting to heal first. Immediate fertilizing risks burning those tender new roots.

Don’t Fertilize Stressed Plants

If your aralia is struggling with yellow leaves, insect infestations, or other stressors, hold off on fertilizing until it recovers. Fertilizer won’t help a stressed plant and may burn it.

How to Tell if You’re Overfertilizing

The most obvious sign of overfertilization is leaf tip burn, where the edges and tips of leaves turn brown. But long before this happens, an overfed aralia will show more subtle symptoms:

• Excessive leggy growth
• Weak stems that flop over
• Poor flowering
• Lower resistance to pests and diseases

Monitor your plant regularly and adjust your fertilizing schedule if you notice increased growth rate along with any of the above symptoms. It’s much easier to correct overfertilizing early before permanent damage occurs.

Finding the Right Fertilizer Balance

The ideal fertilizing regimen can vary quite a bit between individual aralias, depending on factors like pot size, light exposure, and watering frequency. It takes some trial and error to dial in what your particular plant needs. Start with half-strength liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks in spring and summer and watch the plant’s response. Increase frequency if growth seems slow and reduce if you see signs of overfertilization. With careful observation and adjustments over time, you’ll be rewarded with a lush, healthy Balfour aralia.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I fertilize my Balfour aralia?

Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the active growing season in spring and summer. Discontinue fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows down.

What’s the best fertilizer for a Balfour aralia?

Look for a balanced liquid fertilizer where the three numbers on the label are equal or nearly equal. Popular choices include 10-10-10, 20-20-20, or 15-15-15.

Can I use coffee grounds to fertilize my aralia?

Yes, coffee grounds can be used to provide extra nitrogen. But use them sparingly, no more than once a month. Too much can acidify the soil.

Should I fertilize after repotting my aralia?

Wait 3-4 weeks after repotting before fertilizing. This allows time for any damaged roots to recover first.

How can I fix fertilizer burn on my aralia?

Flush the soil thoroughly with clean water to wash away excess fertilizer salts. Trim off badly damaged leaves and stems. Resume fertilizing at a reduced strength.

Conclusion

When used properly, fertilizer can help your Balfour aralia grow thick, glossy leaves and reach its full potential. But improper fertilizing is a common mistake that leads to tip burn, leaf drop, and other damage. By following the dos and don’ts outlined here, you can avoid the pitfalls and reap the benefits of healthy fertilizing. Pay close attention to your plant’s response and adjust your regimen over time. With a little care and observation, you’ll have a lush, thriving Balfour aralia to enjoy for years to come.