With its delicate pink or purple blooms and lacy foliage, Alpine Storksbill (Erodium) brings elegance to any garden. Proper fertilization is key to keeping these flowering perennials healthy and floriferous. This comprehensive guide provides tips on choosing the right fertilizer, techniques for optimal feeding, and solving common issues.
An Overview of Alpine Storksbill
Alpine Storksbill thrives in zones 5-9. They grow best in well-drained slightly acidic soil and full sun. These hardy perennials reach 1-2 feet tall and wide. The fern-like leaves remain evergreen in mild winters.
From spring to fall, Alpine Storksbill produces flowers resembling miniature cranes. The blooms arise on long stalks above the foliage. Deadheading spent blooms encourages more flowers.
Determining Nutrient Needs
Like most plants Alpine Storksbill needs
- Nitrogen for lush foliage growth
- Phosphorus to promote blooming
- Potassium for overall plant health
- Calcium, magnesium, and iron
A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio like 10-10-10 provides all the essential nutrients. Those formulated for flowering plants are ideal.
Alpine Storksbill thrives in organically rich soil. Compost and manure boost fertility but should be used moderately to prevent overfeeding.
Selecting the Right Fertilizer
Look for:
- Balanced blends like 10-10-10 or flowering plant formulas
- Moderate nitrogen levels
- Slow release or liquid formulations
Avoid:
- High nitrogen fertilizers
- Quick release pellets or spikes
- Excessive organic amendments
Specialty Alpine Storksbill fertilizers are available. But a balanced all-purpose formula works well.
When to Fertilize
Feed Alpine Storksbill at these key times:
- Early spring – Kickstarts growth and prepares for blooming
- Every 4-6 weeks during growing season – Sustains plant through peak blooming
- Late summer/early fall – Strengthens plant before dormancy
Avoid fertilizing after late fall to prevent winter damage and root rot.
How to Fertilize Properly
Follow these tips for optimal fertilizing:
- Read and follow label directions to avoid overfeeding
- Use diluted liquid fertilizer or sprinkle granules around drip line
- Water deeply after feeding to distribute nutrients
- Never get fertilizer on leaves to prevent burning
- Adjust frequency based on plant response
- Cease fertilizing as winter approaches
Monthly feedings are ideal for container-grown plants. In-ground plants can be fertilized every 6-8 weeks.
Signs of Nutrient Deficiencies
Watch for these signs of hunger:
- Stunted growth
- Sparse or no blooms
- Pale leaves
- Premature fall color
This indicates the need for more fertilizer. Ramp up feedings and monitor the plant.
Symptoms of Overfeeding
Overfertilization can damage plants. Watch for:
- Tip burn on leaves
- Leggy growth
- Few or no flowers
- Root damage
Flush soil with water to remove excess nutrients. Avoid further feeding until the plant recovers.
Best Practices for Feeding Alpine Storksbill
Follow these tips for success:
- Test soil pH and amend if needed
- Use only balanced, flowering plant fertilizers
- Feed regularly from spring to late summer
- Apply diluted liquid fertilizer or granular blend
- Never allow fertilizer to touch leaves
- Water deeply after each feeding
- Adjust frequency based on response
- Watch for signs of nutrient issues
With the proper fertilization regime, your Alpine Storksbill will thrive and flower abundantly season after season. A little care goes a long way with these delicate bloomers.
How to fertilize Admirable Stork’s-bill
Most potting soils come with ample nutrients which plants use to produce new growth.
By the time your plant has depleted the nutrients in its soil it’s likely grown enough to need a larger pot anyway.
To replenish this plants nutrients, repot your Admirable Storks-bill after it doubles in size or once a year—whichever comes first.
Admirable Storks-bill prefers for the soil to dry out between waterings and should be watered regularly. Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.
Admirable Storks-bill requires abundant, bright and direct light. Place it less than one foot from a window to ensure it receives enough light to survive . Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement in your home .
Greg does not have confirmed data on this plant’s toxicity. If you, a family member, or a pet consumes plant material of unknown toxicity, it’s always best to consult a medical professional.
If you or someone else ingested this plant, call Poison Control at US (800) 222-1222. If a pet consumed this plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA at US (888) 426-4435.
Admirable Storks-bill doesn’t require additional humidity. Plants absorb most water through their root system rather than their leaves, so the best way to provide humidity for your plants is through watering the soil.
Admirable Storks-bill does best in well-draining soil. A good soil will contain lots of organic matter such as coco coir as well as perlite or vermiculite to help with drainage. Adding a handful of perlite to regular store-bought potting soil should do the trick!
Admirable Storks-bill should be repotted after it doubles in size or once a year, whichever comes first. Fresh potting soil has all the nutrients your plant needs, so as long as it’s refreshed yearly, you shouldn’t need to use fertilizer. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not fertilizer!
Admirable Storks-bill is native to Tropical and Subtropical regions worldwide.
When troubleshooting a sad-looking houseplant, start by checking for signs of distress in its leaves, such as yellowing, browning, or drooping, which can indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies.
Inspect the soil moisture; too dry or too wet soil can cause problems.
Ensure the plant is getting the right amount of light, as too much or too little can stress it.
Finally, consider environmental factors like temperature and humidity, and adjust care routines accordingly to revive your plant.
Finding light for Admirable Stork’s-bill in your home
Admirable Storks-bill love being close to bright, sunny windows .
Place it less than 1ft from a south-facing window to maximize the potential for growth.
Admirable Storks-bill does not tolerate low-light .
Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement of Admirable Storks-bill in your home .
Beginner’s Guide to Fertilizing Garden Plants
FAQ
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What is a storksbill plant called?
Common Names: Alfilaria, Filaree, Storksbill, Heron’s Bill, Pin Clover. Life Cycle: Hardy perennial. Half hardy perennial. Annual. Height: 3 to 36 inches (8 to 90 cm). Native: Mediterranean, Western Asia. Family: Geraniaceae. Growing Region: Zones 6 to 10. Flowers: Early to mid summer. Flower Details: White, pink, lavender. yellow. Cup-shaped.
Where do stork’s bills come from?
Most occur only in isolated locations. The broader Geraniaceae (geranium) family contains numerous species, both native and introduced. The plant’s common name “Stork’s Bill” references the shape of its seedpods, which resemble a stork’s open bill.
Why is it called Stork’s Bill?
The plant’s common name “Stork’s Bill” references the shape of its seedpods, which resemble a stork’s open bill. • Redstem Stork’s Bill | Fire Effects Information System (FEIS) ( About This Site)