Flowering quinces are prized for their colorful flowers in early spring and branching structure. Applying fertilizer is one way to maximize flowering and growth rate. Proper timing of fertilizer is key. In fertile or highly amended soil, no additional fertilizer will be needed until the first year following establishment. Monitoring the flowering quince for nutrient deficiency can also guide decisions and indicate if the soil pH or drainage must be corrected.
How to Fertilize Flowering Quince
Fertilize the flowering quince by applying granular fertilizer at the lowest rate suggested by the fertilizer manufacturer. Sprinkle the fertilizer evenly over the root zone. Providing regular irrigation will make the fertilizer available for uptake.
Flowering quince shrubs perform best when the soil pH is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. If growth is slow or foliage has discoloration, the pH of the soil may be too low. Alternatively, a well-established, vigorous quince may not need fertilizer. Instead, topdress with compost in the spring or alternate with fertilizer every other year.
Best Time To Fertilize Flowering Quince
The best time to fertilize flowering quince is in spring at the time of flowering. Timing application too early or too late can promote vegetative growth at the expense of flowering. Container specimens, however, may benefit from a light feeding at the time of flowering and a second light feeding in late spring or early summer. Containers lose nutrients through frequent irrigations and require more frequent feedings than landscape plants.
Best Fertilizer For Flowering Quince
Use a balanced fertilizer like a 5-5-5, or one with a lower ratio of nitrogen to phosphorus and potassium like a 10-30-20. Dr. Earth’s Pure Gold All Purpose fertilizer has a 2-2-2 NPK ratio, making it a great option for the low fertilizer requirements of flowering quince. It is important to remember that flowering quince has a higher pH preference than many other fruiting plants, so avoid using fertilizers labeled for acid-loving plants.
Flowering Quince Fertilizing Tips
- Apply fertilizer in early spring during blooming
- Use a low rate of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
- Avoid late-season fertilizer applications
- Flowering quince prefers a soil pH from 6.0 to 7.5
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 Angela Ryczkowski - Published 1-11-2024 |