What Do You Fertilize Poinsettas With?

Proper poinsettia fertilization depends on the nutritional needs of the plant.

Poinsettias thrive when properly fertilized. If you want the best results from fertilization, you must know what nutrients your plant needs. A soil test may give you this information, which you may use to select the best fertilizer for your plant.

Healthy Poinsettias

If your poinsettia has no nutritional deficiencies, you may use compost to fertilize it. Compost may be purchased, but you may make it yourself from leftover kitchen waste. Add it to the poinsettia plant's soil once a month to keep nutrient levels stable.

Calcium Deficient Poinsettias

It is not uncommon for poinsettias to become deficient in calcium. When this nutrient is lacking, you might notice dying bracts and leaf-edge burn. To remedy the problem, use a 20-0-20 or 15-0-15 fertilizer in the soil until calcium levels return to normal. You may also purchase calcium sprays that can be applied weekly.

Phosphorous Deficient Poinsettias

Poinsettias lacking in phosphorous are small in size with slow growth. You should use a fertilizer high in phosphorous, such as 0-20-0, if your poinsettia plant is lacking in that nutrient. Once the levels return to normal, go back to using compost or another general purpose fertilizer. Excess amounts of phosphorous may result in little to no blooming.

References

• UMassAmherst: UMassExtension: Greenhouse Crops and Floriculture
• Compost Fundamentals: Compost Benefits