Succulents are admired for their hardiness and low-maintenance nature, but even these resilient plants appreciate a nutrient boost now and then.
Fertilizing succulents can enhance their growth, color, and overall vitality. In this guide, we’ll discuss the why, when, what, and how of fertilizing succulents, ensuring your plants remain healthy and vibrant.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, there’s something here for you.
Why Fertilize Succulents?

While succulents are adapted to thrive in nutrient-poor environments, providing them with essential nutrients can make a noticeable difference. Fertilizing your succulents:
- Promotes Healthy Growth: A steady supply of nutrients supports robust and steady growth.
- Enhances Color: Nutrient-rich succulents often display more vivid and vibrant colors.
- Encourages Blooming: Some succulents produce more flowers when adequately fertilized.
I remember the first time I decided to fertilize my collection. My Jade Plant, which had always been somewhat modest in size, suddenly sprouted new growth and developed a richer green hue. It was as if it was thanking me for the extra care!
When to Fertilize Succulents
Timing is important when it comes to fertilizing succulents.
Active Growing Season
Spring and Early Summer: Most succulents enter their active growth phase during these months. Fertilizing at the start of this period gives them the nutrients they need for vigorous growth.
Avoid Dormant Periods
Late Fall and Winter: Many succulents go dormant during colder months. Fertilizing during dormancy can lead to nutrient buildup in the soil, potentially harming the plant.
One summer, after a particularly harsh winter, I noticed my outdoor succulents seemed sluggish. I gave them a gentle feed in early spring, and by mid-summer, they were thriving, some even producing flowers for the first time!
What Fertilizer to Use for Succulents
Choosing the right fertilizer ensures your succulents get the nutrients they need without risk of damage.
Organic, Balanced Fertilizers
- Why Organic? Organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly, reducing the risk of root burn and providing a steady nutrient supply.
- Balanced Nutrient Ratio: Look for fertilizers with equal or near-equal parts nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).
Recommended Fertilizers
- Liquid Fertilizers: Products like Dr. Earth’s Organic & Natural Succulent Fertilizer are excellent. They can be diluted and applied with your regular watering schedule.
- Slow-Release Options: EarthPods capsules or slow-release pellets from reputable brands offer convenience and long-term feeding.
- Made from the highest level Human Grade whole-foods. Derived from natural market super-foods such as seafoods, raw meats, fruits, vegetables, whole grains.
- People & Pet Safe - no synthetic chemicals, GMO infested chicken manure or toxic ingredients.
- Easy to use.
Last year, I tried a kelp-based fertilizer on my Aloe Vera. Not only did it seem to boost growth, but the plant also developed a more robust structure. It became my go-to choice for many of my succulents.
Homemade Fertilizers
If you prefer DIY solutions:
- Compost Tea: Steep well-aged compost in water for 24 hours. Use the liquid to water your succulents.
- Worm Casting Tea: Similar to compost tea, but using worm castings for an extra nutrient punch.
A friend swears by her homemade worm-casting tea. She attributes the impressive size of her Echeverias to this natural elixir.
Fertilizers to Avoid
- High-Nitrogen Fertilizers: These can promote excessive, weak growth.
- Non-Organic Options: Synthetic fertilizers can release nutrients too quickly, risking root burn.
- Animal Manure-Based Fertilizers: Products high in urea or manure may be too strong for succulents.
How to Fertilize Succulents
Proper application is key to safe and effective fertilization.
Dilution is Essential
- Reduce Strength: Even with succulent-specific fertilizers, dilute them to half or quarter the recommended strength.
- Mix with Water: Combine the fertilizer with water according to the dilution ratio.
Application Tips
- Direct Soil Application: Pour the diluted fertilizer directly onto the soil, avoiding the leaves.
- Watering Schedule: Incorporate fertilizing into your regular watering routine during the growing season.
- Frequency: Generally, fertilize once a month during active growth. Adjust based on your plant’s response.
When I first started, I made the mistake of over-fertilizing. My Haworthia began to yellow, a clear sign something was wrong. After flushing the soil with water and adjusting my approach, the plant recovered and taught me a valuable lesson about moderation.
- Made from the highest level Human Grade whole-foods. Derived from natural market super-foods such as seafoods, raw meats, fruits, vegetables, whole grains.
- People & Pet Safe - no synthetic chemicals, GMO infested chicken manure or toxic ingredients.
- Easy to use.
Signs Your Succulent Needs Fertilizing
Understanding when your succulent needs a nutrient boost helps prevent both under- and over-fertilization.
Environmental Clues
- Time Since Last Fertilization or Repotting: If it’s been over a year, nutrients in the soil may be depleted.
- Soil Composition: A gritty mix with little organic matter may lack sufficient nutrients.
- Crowded Conditions: Plants sharing a pot may compete for limited nutrients.
I noticed my pot of mixed succulents wasn’t thriving as it once did. Realizing they’d outgrown their space, I repotted them, provided fresh soil, and gave them a light feed. They bounced back beautifully! To keep them healthy, I made sure to research how to water succulents properly, avoiding overwatering while ensuring the soil dried out between waterings. I also repositioned the pot to give them the right balance of sunlight and shade. Watching them flourish again has been so rewarding!
Plant Appearance Clues
- Yellowing Leaves (Chlorosis): Indicates potential nutrient deficiencies, particularly in nitrogen, iron, or magnesium.
- Stunted Growth: Lack of new growth during the growing season can signal nutrient needs.
- Pale or Dull Coloration: Vibrant colors fading may be due to insufficient nutrients.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s also beneficial to check for other issues like root rot or common indoor succulent mistakes that could be affecting your plant’s health.
Avoiding Over-Fertilization
Over-fertilizing can harm your succulents more than not fertilizing at all.
Risks of Over-Fertilization
- Root Burn: Excess nutrients can damage roots, hindering water and nutrient uptake.
- Weak, Leggy Growth: Too much fertilizer can cause rapid, unhealthy growth, leading to succulents growing tall and leggy.
- Salt Buildup: Accumulation of nutrients in the soil can create an inhospitable environment.
Preventive Measures
- Less is More: When in doubt, use less fertilizer. Succulents need minimal feeding.
- Monitor Your Plants: Watch for signs of over-fertilization, such as yellowing or wilting.
- Flush the Soil: If you suspect over-fertilization, water thoroughly to help leach excess nutrients.
After my over-fertilizing mishap, I learned to be cautious. Now, I start with a weak solution and only increase if necessary. It’s much easier to add more later than to deal with the consequences of too much.
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Fertilizing Outdoor Succulents
Outdoor succulents have slightly different needs.
Top-Dressing with Compost
- Natural Nutrient Release: Applying a thin layer of compost around your succulents enriches the soil over time.
- Mulching Benefits: Compost can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Each spring, I spread a bit of homemade compost around my outdoor succulents. Not only does it feed them, but it also improves the soil structure.
Consider Rainfall
- Nutrient Leaching: Rain can wash away nutrients. Light fertilization can replenish what’s lost.
- Natural Irrigation: Rain helps distribute nutrients from compost or fertilizers into the soil.
For those designing succulent landscapes, consider integrating sedum ground covers that can benefit from natural fertilizing methods.
Additional Tips for Healthy Succulents
Fertilizing is just one aspect of succulent care. Keep these tips in mind:
- Proper Lighting: Ensure your succulents receive adequate sunlight appropriate for their species. Overexposure can cause succulents to turn brown or black.
- Well-Draining Soil: Use a soil mix designed for succulents to prevent root rot.
- Appropriate Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Pest Management: Keep an eye out for pests like mealybugs and address issues promptly.
- Regular Maintenance: Remove dead or dying leaves to prevent disease and pest attraction.
- Repot When Necessary: Refresh the soil every couple of years to replenish nutrients.
If you’re new to succulent care, our comprehensive guide on how to care for succulents can provide a solid foundation.
Conclusion
Fertilizing succulents doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding why it’s beneficial, knowing when and how to do it, and choosing the right products, you can enhance the health and beauty of your plants. Remember, moderation is key, and always pay attention to the signs your succulents give you. Happy gardening!
Following these guidelines has transformed my own succulent collection. With careful fertilization and attentive care, my plants have never looked better. Whether you’re just starting or have a well-established collection, I hope these insights help your succulents thrive as well.