Alyssum is an ornamental plant grown primarily for its nonstop blooming and sweet-scented flowers. Whether you are growing Alyssum as an annual or a tender perennial, fertilizer can support abundant flowering. For annual Alyssum, regular feedings through the summer will keep your plant blooming happily until the first frost of fall.
How to Fertilize Alyssum
Alyssum is not fussy about the soil it is growing in, as long as the pH is near 7.0 or neutral. Feed annual Alyssum with a diluted liquid fertilizer during a regular watering session every 2-3 weeks. This schedule will support growth and blooming of plants either growing in the garden or containers all summer.
Feed perennial Alyssum a slow-release, granular formula that is mixed into the soil. Slow-release fertilizers usually stay active for three months. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and fertilize Alyssum year-round in zones 9-11.
Best Time To Fertilize Alyssum
Fertilize Alyssum while it is actively growing and blooming. Grown as an annual, Alyssum needs feeding every 2-3 weeks from April to first frost. Alyssum grown as a perennial will need feeding every three months starting in the early spring. A summer feeding and then a late fall feeding is sufficient. Plants do not take up fertilizers when soil temperatures are below 50 degrees F.
Best Fertilizer For Alyssum
The best fertilizers for heavy-blooming plants are high in phosphorus and lower in nitrogen. Look for an NPK ratio like 0-10-10 or 1-3-1. Brands such as Espoma and Alaska make fertilizers recognized by the OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) as true organic formulas. We recommend fertilizing Alyssum with Alaska Morbloom or Espoma Organic Bloom!, which are complete fertilizers and are blended to promote heavy blooming and strong root development.
Alyssum Fertilizing Tips
- Use a complete fertilizer with a high phosphorus to nitrogen ratio.
- Feed annual Alyssum with a liquid formulation every 2-3 weeks for quick uptake
- Feed perennial Alyssum with a granular, slow-release fertilizer for a consistent release of nutrients
- Annuals can be fertilized up to the first frost of the season
- Perennials should be fed every three months year-round, as long as the weather is above 50 F
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 Robbin Small - Published 12-16-2022 |