How to fertilize a desert rose
Adenium obesum
Quick answer
Feed Adenium obesum during active summer growth, then stop during winter rest. Give a low-dose liquid fertilizer once a month in summer.
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How to fertilize a desert rose
- 01
When to fertilize
Feed Adenium obesum monthly during the summer growing season and give no fertilizer during winter rest. Do not keep up the monthly feeding when the plant is dormant.
Feeding belongs to active summer growth. During winter rest the plant may lose leaves and stop flowering. Withhold water and do not continue normal feeding. Rest timing varies among plants and hybrids.
- 02
Fertilizer type and dose
Use a low-dose liquid fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s label during active summer growth. Do not swap in a strong or slow-release fertilizer.
- 03
When not to fertilize
Yellowing or leaf drop can be associated with overfertilizing, overwatering or low light, while seasonal leaf drop can be part of winter rest. Check growth stage and root-zone moisture before adding feed.
All desert rose guides
Keep reading
Sources4 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineAccepted name · classification · native range
- University of Florida IFAS ExtensionIndoor/Home/Office Cultivation Information
- Oregon State University Landscape PlantsPlant description · houseplant use · temperature · container medium
- University of Florida IFAS Extension blogCauses discussed for yellowing or dropping leaves
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