Finally, the moment has come when the geranium, after being transplanted into open ground, has settled into its new place, and fresh branches peeked out from the leaf axils. This means it’s time for the first fertilizer. And in order not to spend money on store-bought formulations, you can use natural remedies.
First feeding
As soon as the geranium comes to life and begins to grow, it needs nitrogen. It is responsible for cell division and lush green growth. Without strong leaf mass, the plant will not form many flower buds. Infusions of weeds and nettles work well.
Take a plastic bucket. Two-thirds of it is densely filled with young juicy nettles (without seeds). The raw materials are filled with clean water, but not to the brim. Cover the container with a lid or gauze and place in a warm, sunny place for 5–7 days. Every day the mass is stirred with a stick to release gas. Readiness is determined by the sharp “manure” smell and dark greenish-brown color of the liquid.
1 liter of infusion is diluted in 10 liters of water. Plants are watered strictly on damp soil. First, the bed is moistened with clean water. Consumption per geranium bush is 0.5–1 liter of the prepared solution.
“We repeat the same feeding after 10 days. By the time of the second feeding, if you don’t have enough nettles for the infusion, then add dandelions or wheatgrass,” shares the author of the Zen channel “My Successful Dacha” (12+).
Second feeding
When the geranium has grown enough greenery and begins to set buds, nitrogen is not needed. Now phosphorus (for roots) and potassium (for buds and long, bright flowering) are required. Suitable here ordinary wood ash. It not only feeds the plant, but also gently reduces the acidity of the soil.
We feed in two ways
Dry method. After rain or regular watering, the ash is scattered around the base of the bush. It is advisable not to touch the growing point and lower leaves. Then it is lightly embedded into the top layer of soil by loosening. With each watering, nutrients will gradually flow to the roots.
Liquid solution – a faster option. Prepare the extract: 1 glass (200 g) of sifted ash is poured into 1 liter of hot water, stir well and leave for 1-2 days. The resulting infusion is brought to a volume of 10 liters and watered over the geranium.
This fertilizer is applied once every two weeks during budding and flowering.
Previously, we reported which 3 components need to be added to a watering can to get a sweet sea of strawberries.
