Properly supporting a plant’s good health includes satisfying its fertilizing needs. Ajuga, however, is a low-maintenance perennial that does not require a lot of fertilizer; it tolerates poor soil. Whether newly planted or established, Ajuga only needs a layer of compost in the spring to support its production of showy foliage and delicate flowers. Overfertilizing Ajuga can cause the foliage to turn yellow and appear burnt at its edges, so a soil test may be wise before amending poor soil.
How to Fertilize Ajuga
Ajuga prefers moist, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Unless the soil is exceptionally nutrient deficient, Ajuga should not require fertilizer. A layer of organic compost applied during the spring should suffice. If organic compost is not an option, use a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid overfertilizing, which can cause fertilizer burn and scorch the foliage. If you overfertilize, flush the soil with water and amend the soil with straw/coco coir. Both of these methods reduce nitrogen in the soil.
Best Time To Fertilize Ajuga
The best time to fertilize Ajuga is during the spring. A light feeder, Ajuga may not need any fertilizer. It’s also tolerant of poor soil. To feed Ajuga, apply a slow-release granular fertilizer or layer of compost. Choose a low-nitrogen fertilizer if possible, such as a 5-10-10.
Plants grown in containers require new soil every year or so and a couple of feedings during the growing season. Apply a liquid fertilizer at half the manufacturer’s recommended strength in the spring and summer.
Best Fertilizer For Ajuga
The best organic fertilizer for Ajuga is Happy Frog® Fruit & Flower, a 5-9-3 (N-P-K) slow-release, granular fertilizer. Another organic fertilizer that will work well is Miracle-Gro® Performance Organics Blooms Plant Nutrition Granules, a 5-7-10 (N-P-K) slow-release, granular fertilizer.
Ajuga Fertilizing Tips
- Ajuga is a light feeder and does not require much fertilizer.
- For poor soil, fertilize Ajuga with organic compost or a slow-release granular fertilizer in the spring.
- The best fertilizer to feed Ajuga with is Happy Frog® Fruit & Flower, a 5-9-3 (N-P-K) slow-release granular fertilizer.
Warnings
-Always wear protective gloves and a face mask when handling chemical fertilizers.
-Closely follow all directions and storage guidelines that are on the fertilizer label.
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Author Suellen Barnes - Published 11-21-2023 |