Scotch Broom is a leguminous low-maintenance shrub that thrives in dry, sandy, or gravelly soils. It is also a nitrogen-fixing plant, which means it can extract nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that can be readily used by the plant. It also has adapted to grow well in low fertility soils. Because of these features, Scotch Broom typically does not require additional fertilization.
How to Fertilize Scotch Broom
Scotch Broom grows best in well-draining soil, with a slightly acidic soil pH between 6.0 - 6.5. To determine your soil pH, you can purchase a basic soil test from your local garden center or online supplier. If your soil pH is outside of this range, you can adjust it by adding sulfur or aluminum sulfate to lower the level or a lime-based compound to raise it.
Because Scotch Broom is a nitrogen-fixing plant, it generally doesn’t need additional nutrients. For best performance, plant it in full sunlight in well-draining soil. If you notice the plant isn’t blooming and the sunlight and soil requirements are met, you can add a balanced (10-10-10), organic, water-soluble fertilizer once per year in early spring before it blooms. Scotch Broom varieties tend to bloom from March through June. Be sure the soil is wet before adding fertilizer to avoid root burn.
Best Time To Fertilize Scotch Broom
You can apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to Scotch Broom's root zone in early spring, before the plant blooms. Dilute the formula to half the strength recommended on the label. Depending on which zone you are located in, Scotch Broom typically blooms from March- June. Water the root zone thoroughly before applying fertilizer to avoid any possible root burn.
Best Fertilizer For Scotch Broom
Although not required, you can supplement Scotch Broom’s nutrition using a balanced, water-soluble, organic fertilizer. Dilute the product in water to half the recommended strength on the label, and apply it to the root zone in early spring. Keep in mind fertilizer isn’t required if you provide Scotch Broom with its basic growing requirements.
Scotch Broom Fertilizing Tips
- Prefers slightly acidic, well-draining soil
- Plant in full sun
- Optional: apply a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Water thoroughly to avoid root burn
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 Chris Link - Published 01-26-2023 |