Fertilizing Houseplants: Is it time, yet?

Nearly everyone knows that houseplants grow slowly during the winter and don't require fertilizer, but what you might not know is how to tell when it is time to begin a regular routine of feeding your hungry plants.

Most sources recommend withholding fertilizer from September or October to March, but that's only a rule of thumb. You need to resume feeding your houseplants as soon as you see signs of new growth bursting forth, typically in early spring.

My houseplants have already given me the nod that it is time for fresh nutrients. My anthurirum (above), commonly referred to as a flamingo flower, is producing new leaves and beginning to flourish. At first, I attributed it to moving it to a new window where it received more light, but I don't think that is the only reason.

New Growth — Mandevilla

Full Bloom — Mandevilla

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My mandevilla vine dropped most of its leaves earlier this winter, but has suddenly decided it is time to resume growth.

I gave them both  a weakened solution of Miracle Grow this morning and expect to see a burst of new growth over the next few weeks.

I'll admit it is a little early in the year to see new growth appearing on houseplants, but sometimes they have a mind of their own. Being ready to give them what they need is the least we plant owners can do.

Personally, I am hoping it is a sign of an early spring.