Vinca (Catharanthus roseus) is grown as an annual flowering plant used for groundcover in landscape areas. Able to thrive in poor soil and dry conditions, this plant grows aggressively and is known for its fragrant colorful flowers. To help produce more blooms and bright green foliage, fertilizing your Vinca on a monthly basis is a good idea. If your soil is rich in organic matter, fertilizing your newly planted Vinca is not necessary.
How to Fertilize Vinca
Due to its hardiness, Vinca is often grown in areas that have less than ideal growing conditions. Vinca can survive in hot dry weather and average soils as long as the soil drains well. Vinca can grow in sandy or clay soil with a pH of 5.0 - 8.0. Despite its hardiness, Vinca plants will benefit from monthly feedings.
Monthly fertilizing will help the plant keep its bright green foliage looking good and promote more blooming. Use a low rate slow release fertilizer. Avoid getting fertilizer on the foliage as this can cause burning of the leaves. Water the plant well after each feeding.
Best Time To Fertilize Vinca
Vinca plants will benefit from monthly feedings throughout the growing season. If planted in good quality soil, then fertilizing when newly planted in the spring is not necessary. It is best to apply fertilizer during the morning hours, avoiding the heat of the day. The hot sun on top of fertilizer can scorch the leaves. Water the plant well after each application.
Best Fertilizer For Vinca
Vinca is not picky about fertilizers as long as they are balanced. Use a 10-10-10 nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium fertilizer. It can be either water soluble or granular. Using Miracle Gro can be another option. This can quickly green up the plant and encourage better blooming. Be sure to follow the packaging instructions on all types of fertilizers. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant.
Vinca Fertilizing Tips
- Fertilize monthly for better blooming
- Use a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer
- Water well after each application
- Avoid the foliage when applying the 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 Chris Link - Published 10-11-2021 |