Plant Food for Spiraea

Spiraea is a member of the rose family with more than 80 species, according to the University of Minnesota. This deciduous shrub ranges in height from 18 inches to 18 feet tall, and produces cone- or dome-shaped clusters of flowers in shades of white, cream, pink, rose or yellow. A hardy, easy-to-grow shrub, spiraea requires a simple application of plant food.

Soil Conditions

Spiraea thrives in a wide range of soil that is well-drained, retains moisture and has a low alkaline pH. Before planting the bush, improve sandy soil by digging in plenty of rotted organic matter.

Chemical Fertilizer

Spiraea does not need frequent applications of fertilizer, according to the University of Minnesota. Apply a balanced chemical fertilizer (10-10-10) once a year in the spring.

Organic Fertilizer

Use an organic fertilizer as an alternative to chemical fertilizer; bone meal encourages robust growth. Gently work the organic fertilizer into the soil around the roots of spiraea in the spring and again in the fall.

References

• University of Minnesota: Minnesota Gardening for Beginners; Spirea; July 2006
• North Dakota State University: Propagation of Spiraea; Derek Devine
• "The Complete Garden Flower Book"; Catie Ziller, Publisher; 2001

Resources

• University of Maryland Cooperative Extension: Blue Spiraea Production and Consumer Care