Fertilizing Nemesia

Nemesia is an easy-care stunner that pushes out lovely tubular blooms during the summer and into the fall. So, why should you fertilize Nemesia? While this South African native does well with minimal care, feeding will support lush growth and ample blooming during the growing season. The fertilizer regimen can be as simple as one application of a slow-release feed in the spring.

closeup-of-bluebird-nemesia.jpg

How to Fertilize Nemesia

Nemesia is flexible when it comes to feedings. This annual prefers rich soil with a 5.5 to 5.8 pH. Advanced gardeners may want to test the soil pH and adjust it as needed to support healthy growth. Amending the soil with organic compost or well-rotted manure will also help Nemesia grow and bloom. Use one application of a balanced slow-release fertilizer in the spring, or use a water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

potted-nemesia-sunsatia-cranberry-red.jpg

Best Time To Fertilize Nemesia

The best time to fertilize Nemesia depends on the type of product you are using. A granular slow-release fertilizer should be applied once during the spring. You can add it to the planting hole or scratch it into the soil around the root zone. Nutrients will be released every time the plant is watered. Water-soluble fertilizer can be applied during a watering session every two weeks, from spring until fall.

Best Fertilizer For Nemesia

The best fertilizer for Nemesia is a gentle organic formula, such as Down to Earth Organic Bio-Live Fertilizer Mix, which contains beneficial bacteria and mycorrhiza fungi to assist root development. AgroThrive Fruit and Flower Organic Liquid Fertilizer is another good choice for supporting blooms without promoting excess foliage growth. Look for a product with a low-nitrogen content.

Slow-release and water-soluble fertilizers are both excellent options for Nemesia, and which product to use is a matter of preference. Gardeners who wish to be more hands-off may prefer a slow-release plant food since it requires only one application. 

Nemesia Fertilizing Tips

  • Amend the soil for Nemesia with organic compost or manure when planting
  • Use an organic fertilizer with a low-nitrogen content
  • Depending on preference, apply a slow-release fertilizer once during the spring or a water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks from spring through fall

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.

 

 Alison Cotsonas Profile Pic

Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 09-01-2022