How to Solve Nitrogen Deficiency in House Plants

Nitrogen deficiency in plants causes a reduced rate of growth and inhibits blooming and fruit production. Plants require nitrogen to build plant proteins and nucleic acid necessary to build strong healthy foliage and produce blooms. Signs of a nitrogen deficiency include older leaves turning yellow and falling from the plant and new growth that is smaller than usual and a paler green than other leaves on the plant. The underside of leaves may appear reddish or purple and the plant may wilt easily even when it is well watered. Most plants respond quickly to nitrogen application, which can be accomplished in several ways.

Things You'll Need

• Water-soluble fertilizer
• Fish emulsion
• Compost
• Well-rotted manure
• Fertilizer spikes

Instructions

1. Look for fertilizer high in nitrogen, which is the first number in the formula for the fertilizer. Water-soluble foliage feeders can be applied to both the foliage and the soil to quickly provide a boost of nitrogen and are available in several formulas. Choose the formula designed for your particular plant and follow the recommended application rate on the container.

2. Apply fish emulsion to houseplants following the recommended application rate on the container. Fish emulsion is generally mixed with water and applied to the surface of the soil. Water until the soil is evenly moist.

3. Re-pot the plant in new potting soil with ample amounts of well-rotted manure or compost. A ratio of two parts all-purpose potting soil to one part compost or manure provides the nitrogen plants need to thrive.

4. Maintain a regular schedule for fertilizing houseplants. Plant spikes are available to insert in the soil. These release the needed nutrients when you water the plant. Alternately, regular applications of water-soluble fertilizer maintain proper nutrient levels. Feed plants with a ¼ strength solution of liquid fertilizer every time you water or full strength once per month to restore nitrogen and prevent deficiencies from recurring.

Tips & Warnings

• Nutrients leach from containers with each watering. If plants are grown in the same container and soil for prolonged periods, they require regular application of fertilizer to maintain nutrient levels.

• Never apply fertilizer in a stronger concentration than recommended, as this may damage roots.

References

• Nitrogen Deficiency