Probably one of the most confusing aspects of gardening comes down to fertilising. 

What fertiliser do you choose? What formulation do you use? What fertilisers are there for the types of plants you’re growing?

There are so many questions, but honestly, it’s not that difficult if you just take your time to look across the product range and understand what your plant’s needs are.

Controlled-release fertilisers

One of my favourites for container plants are controlled-release fertilisers. 

These are prilled fertilisers, which makes them really easy to spread across your pots - or even in the garden. 

They release nutrients slowly through moisture and temperature. If you’re someone who doesn’t always remember to fertilise, these are ideal. They’ll feed your plants over three, six, nine or even 12 months, depending on the product you choose.

Crystalline fertilisers

Then we have crystalline fertilisers, like Aquasol. These are water-soluble, which means your plants get an instant hit of nutrients. 

They also come in a wide range of NPK ratios, so you can get the right balance for your plants.

But there’s a catch: they have a high salt index, so if you use them too often in pots, you’ll get a build-up of salts in the soil. 

The trick is to flush them through occasionally to keep everything healthy.

Granular fertilisers

Granular fertilisers are great for the garden because they release nutrients gradually over time. I wouldn’t use them in pots though, they can be too harsh for containerised plants.

They’re perfect for roses, citrus, azaleas, or any garden bed where you want steady, long-term feeding.

Organic fertilisers

My personal go-to for the garden is organic fertilisers, like blood and bone or pelletised chicken manure (Dynamic Lifter).

These don’t just feed your plants, they help build soil biology. You get all the good bacteria, fungi, and other organisms working in your soil as the fertiliser slowly breaks down. 

It’s fantastic for veggie patches and long-term soil health.

Specialty fertilisers and trace elements

Sometimes plants need a little extra. 

For acid-loving plants, like azaleas, camellias, and magnolias, you want fertilisers made for them.

Other times, you might notice yellowing leaves or unusual growth. 

That could be a simple pH adjustment, a general-purpose fertiliser, or, if there’s a significant trace element deficiency, a specialised product.

If you’re not sure, bring a sample of your plant or soil up to the nursery. We can help steer you in the right direction and choose the best product

Lawns and single-element fertilisers

If you’re after a lush, green lawn, there are fertilisers designed specifically for that. 

Some are single-element, like urea, which can increase nitrogen in your soil if that’s what it needs.

My final tip

Whatever fertiliser you use, check the NPK ratio to make sure you’re giving your plants the right balance. 

And if you’re ever unsure, come and ask your friendly horticulturist, we’re here to help.