8 Best Fertilizer For Succulents Reviewed + Buyer’s Guide
Ask any gardener, and she will tell you why succulents are a must-have! Their low watering needs and ability to thrive in dry conditions make them extremely popular, especially for first-time gardeners. After all, who wouldn’t like a plant that demands little attention? Plus, they have both ornamental and edible varieties. So, that’s a bonus! […]
Ask any gardener, and she will tell you why succulents are a must-have!
Their low watering needs and ability to thrive in dry conditions make them extremely popular, especially for first-time gardeners. After all, who wouldn’t like a plant that demands little attention? Plus, they have both ornamental and edible varieties. So, that’s a bonus!
But that shouldn’t be an excuse to deprive them of the nutrients that they need in the form of an effective fertilizer. That’s why, we’ve curated this list of the 8 best succulent fertilizers that are making the right noise. We’ve also included a buyers’ guide to help you make the right decision in the end.
Without any further delay, let’s begin!
Best Fertilizers For Succulents
Here is the list of the 8 best fertilizers for succulents that you can use to improve their growth and vitality.
1. Perfect Plants Succulent Fertilizer – Best for Low Maintenance
If diluting fertilizers seems like too much work to you, then the Perfect Plants Succulent Fertilizer will be the right fit. The even-sized pellets mean that you have the task cut out – just burrow them in the soil. But there are more reasons why it features at the top of our list.
- [Long Lasting, Less Work] - An easy one time granular...
- [Light Feeding Rate] - Our Balanced ratio of nitrogen,...
Why Did We Like It?
The Perfect Plants Succulent Fertilizer is ideal for first-timer gardeners who don’t know a lot about fertilizing succulents. Owing to its low rate of 13-11-11, this product is suitable for any succulent or cactus type. Furthermore, the formulation is balanced for providing maximum nutrition to sensitive root systems and blossoms.
The mix of nutrients promotes healthy growth and optimum color saturation in plants. Moreover, it can be used during potting or for already-established plants.
In the case of the former, poke little holes in the soil and add the pellets. Cover them completely and water as required. Likewise, just sprinkle the fertilizer at the base of already established plants and water. The hard outer covering breaks down according to the nutrient requirement of the plant. Ensure not to place the pellets on the leaf or stem as it serves no purpose.
Finally, the ziplock packaging makes it easy to store the fertilizer after use. With only twice a year (once every six months) application, one pack should last for 5 years. Now, that’s cost-effective!
What Could’ve Been Better?
While at it, pay attention not to concentrate too many pellets in a single spot as it can cause the roots to burn. For best results, add not more than 1/4th teaspoon per 2-inch diameter of soil. And keep it out of reach of children and pets.
- Helps plants adapt to changes in the environment
- Facilitates better moisture retention
- Prevents stem stretching
- Develops bigger and plumper petals
- Concentrated application may burn roots
2. Espoma Organic Cactus Plant Food – Best for Organic Gardening
Espoma is a popular brand for plant care, and it only makes sense to name this product as our next entrant. The Organic Cactus Plant Food is one of the brand’s top products and contains all the nutrients that facilitate healthy development in succulents.
- ORGANIC PLANT FOOD: This liquid fertilizer for Cactus,...
- EASY: Simply add ½ cap of Cactus! plant food liquid per...
Why Did We Like It?
Although the name may tell you otherwise, this fertilizer is formulated for application in any kind of succulent. Apart from the key nutrients, viz. nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, it’s made of other vital non-food ingredients like bacillus megaterium, bacillus licheniformis, trichoderma reesei, trichoderma harzianum, etc. Plus, the microbes mix with soil to provide you with continuous good results.
Unlike its predecessor, this fertilizer shows instant results when mixed with the soil. And the best part is that you don’t need to use a lot. Before the first use, make sure to flip the lid open and turn the bottle upside down for some time. This will allow the product to fill all chambers, making it flow smoothly through the cap.
Depending on the number of succulents and area to be covered, dilute 7 ml with 1-quarter of water. Drench the plant adequately and reapply after every 2 to 4 weeks. Again, the exact time of reapplication will be based on how frequently your succulent needs watering.
What Could’ve Been Better?
There are a few things that need to be taken care of before application. Firstly, never squeeze the bottle to pour the fertilizer. If you need to add more, let the bottle stay inverted till you get the desired amount. Also, it’s not recommended to use any leftover product, whether diluted or not. Long story short, the application can be time-consuming.
- Instant feeding properties
- Promotes more blooms
- Aids color saturation
- Available in packs of more than 2 bottles
- Time-consuming application process
3. Miracle-Gro Succulent Plant Food – Best for Budget-Conscious Users
No list of fertilizers is complete without mentioning Miracle-Gro, so here it goes. Be it aloe, jade, or cacti; this foam Succulent Plant Food works for all. What’s more, it doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket.
- Instantly feeds succulent plants, including cacti
- For all cacti, jade, aloe and other popular succulents
Why Did We Like It?
Being familiar with the reputation of the brand, we were interested to see what this product has to offer. And we were decently satisfied with what it brought to the table. For one, the amount of active ingredients is just right to show fast results but not damage the roots. With a gentle NPK ratio of 0.5-1-1, it feeds the soil instantly to speed up the nutrient absorption rate.
Beyond that, we liked its consistency, which makes it ideal for applying directly onto the roots. But if you’re skeptical, you can also dilute using water and then pour it into the soil as regular watering.
In this regard, use 2 pumps for small pots and 5 for pots with a diameter of 6 inches or more. Alternatively, you can also use 8 pumps per quarter of water and then water as usual. Both ways work just fine.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Perhaps the biggest bummer is its packaging. While the pump may pump out inconsistent volumes of the product, there’s a big sticker across the bottle that makes it virtually impossible to properly read the instructions. And be careful to rinse off the leaves immediately to prevent damage if they accidentally come in contact with the fertilizer.
- Can be diluted or applied directly
- Week-long feed time
- Helps bloom the plants annually
- Cost-effective
- Inconsistent pump
- May damage leaves
4. Cute Farms Succulent Fertilizer
Halfway through the list and the Cute Farms Succulent Fertilizer makes an entry. It’s specially designed to cater to the nutrient needs of hardy plants like cacti, but also does well to fertilize any succulent type.
- MADE FOR SUCCULENTS - Our Succulent Cacti & Aloe Fertilizer...
- EASY TO USE - The fertilizer comes in an 8 fl oz. a sealed...
Why Did We Like It?
Unlike most of our other recommendations, the Cute Farms Succulent Fertilizer has an NPK ratio of 2-2-2, which makes it capable of delivering equal amounts of the key nutrients. So, if you’re looking for the literal all-around development of your succulents, we think you have found your match! But that’s not all. There are several other ingredients that contribute to the healthy development of plants.
As is evident from the description, you need to apply it once a month. For best results, we suggest soaking the soil in filtered water before potting and then beginning fertilizing.
Similar to the Miracle-Gro Succulent Plant Food, this one also comes in a pump bottle. But what we loved about it is that the package also contains a spray bottle for watering and diluting purposes. However, you may pump it directly into the soil. And if you don’t need the sprayer, opt for the fertilizer-only variant.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although we are satisfied with its performance, we aren’t sure if the fertilizer is a 100% natural or organic product. In that sense, it may disappoint users who want eco-friendly fertilizers. Thus, we recommend wearing gloves during application to prevent contact with the skin.
- Balanced formula
- Easy application
- Lasts up to 1 year per plant
- Low odor
- Not organic
5. EarthPods Premium Cactus & Succulent Plant Food
Taking a break from liquid fertilizers, we introduce the EarthPods Premium Cactus & Succulent Plant Food. Its super convenient application and all-natural ingredients make it a favorite among first-time and experienced gardeners alike.
- PREMIUM INDOOR ORGANIC CACTUS & SUCCULENT FERTILIZER —...
- NO MESSY LIQUIDS / NO CONFUSING MEASURING SPOONS / NO STINKY...
Why Did We Like It?
We are totally rooting for eco-friendly products, which include both fertilizer and packing. For starters, 1 tub contains 100 concentrated pods/capsules that stimulate strong root growth, proper stem development, and color saturation for cacti, aloe vera, jade, and other succulent varieties. It mimics the first soil composition, complete with minerals, soil life boosters, and humates.
The sustainable pods can be pushed directly into the soil, after which the outer covering breaks down to gradually release all the nutrients directly to the root nodes. Or if using pebbles or bar substrate, open the pods, and sprinkle the nutrients and water normally. It’s that easy!
While small plants need 1-2 capsules, medium-sized plants should be fertilized with 2 to 4 pods. Likewise, larger plants require 4 to 8 capsules. Reply after 14 to 21 days, depending on the plant size and watering requirement.
Finally, the tub is made from recycled paperboard and printed soy inks, which can be recycled again after use.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Being a premium succulent fertilizer, you can expect to stretch your budget to purchase this product. That said, its superior-gade formula’s evident results make it worth the price tag. However, keep the tub away from moisture as it can lead to the premature breakdown of the pods.
- Concentrated formula
- Can be handled by children
- Contains more than 70 natural ingredients
- Available for a host of plant varieties
- Expensive
6. Grow More 3130 Cactus Juice
The Grow More 3130 Cactus Juice is an easy-to-apply, nutrient-rich fertilizer that suits all succulent types. True to its brand name, this liquid fertilizer helps in the all-around growth of succulents to ensure a long life.
- Provides calcium and other nutrients to cacti and succulents
- Mix 1 teaspoon per gallon of water and apply as a soil...
Why Did We Like It?
First and foremost, the Grow More 3130 Cactus Juice contains essential cacti-loving calcium, which provides some much-needed structural support to the cell walls. Apart from that, it also serves as a secondary source of transmitting food and nutrients when the plants are weak or physically stressed. This is one of the main reasons why this fertilizer helps in the strength development of old plants.
Moreover, the NPK ratio of 1-7-6 will serve the nutrient needs of all types of succulents and cacti. Simply add 1 teaspoon per gallon of water and drench the soil with a focus on the root points. It takes about 2 weeks for the soil to absorb everything, so applying once every 14 days during the growing season should do the job.
Last but not least, the leak-proof packaging makes it easy to store the product. And since it doesn’t have an expiry date per se, a 16-ounce bottle should last for quite some time.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We are a bit bummed out that without strictly following the instructions on the bottle, users may damage the plants. Plus, the formula may evaporate or crystalize over time, which then renders the product useless.
- Can be diluted before use
- 2 weeks nutrient release time
- Aids new growth
- Promote color saturation and a strong spike in cacti
- May burn roots if not used as advised
- Storing for long can affect the shelf life
7. Schultz Cactus Plus Liquid Plant Food
Up next, we have the Schultz Cactus Plus Liquid Plant Food. Made from a mix of the right nutrients, it allows quick absorption by the roots for both indoor and outdoor plants. Not only that, but it also helps in propagating new plants.
- Feeds through the roots
- For All Cacti and other Succulents
Why Did We Like It?
The Schultz Cactus Plus Liquid Plant Food is a reputed name among home gardens, and that’s what compelled us to try this product in the first place. To begin with, the NPK ratio of 2-7-7 offers an adequate amount of growth-promoting agents in new and older plants. It can be used for cacti, aloe vera, and other succulent varieties.
Another one of its likable features is the dropper bottle, which ensures precise application. As opposed to pumping bottles, it provides creator control over the amount being poured. Furthermore, the package comes with dedicated instructions for varied requirements. For example, the ideal dosage is 7 drops per quarter when watering indoor plants.
But if the plants are too parched or the frequency of watering is more, increase the amount to 14 drops. Likewise, use between 4 and 8 drops per gallon of water for outdoor plants, depending on the watering needs. Finally, its super-affordable price tag is great if you’re on a tight budget.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Since the formula runs the risk of damaging roots with over-fertilization, you need to have a clear idea about the water requirements of the plants. This can be a hassle for first-timers, who are yet to get the hang of things. So, we’d advise starting with the minimum dosage and increasing gradually.
- Concentrated formulation
- Appropriate consistency dissolves easily
- Precise dropper application
- Affordable
- Over-fertilizing damages plants
8. Hoffman 10404 Organic Cactus And Succulent Soil
The Hoffman 10404 Organic Cactus And Succulent Soil is an airy and lightweight base that’s best suited for cacti growth. Its professionally engineered formula brings the efficiency of high-quality soil mix to your garden.
- Provides the drainage cacti need to flourish.
- You will receive (1) 4-quart bag with this order.
Why Did We Like It?
Even before we can discuss its advantages, allow us to shower some praises on the packaging. Not only is the packet readable, but it also comes with detailed instructions, which will come in handy for first-timers. One look at the information and you’ll know exactly how to use the soil with different succulents.
Moving on to the key ingredients, it includes a professional blend of nutrients extracted from Canadian sphagnum, peat moss, reed sedge peat, perlite, sand, limestone, and so on. Moreover, the pH balance means that you don’t need to add anything else for potting. Simply take it out of the bag and fill the pot.
Similar to the Superfly Bonsai Succulent & Cactus Soil Mix, there’s plenty of circulation and drainage on offer. When used with the right pot, there are almost zero chances of damaging your plants.
Lastly, we appreciate the brand’s attention to detail, viz. the accompanying pair of garden gloves that keep your hands safe from cuts and scrapes while gardening.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We aren’t convinced about how well the soil works for reporting purposes. During our trial, we noticed that the soil floods upon watering and it takes significantly more time for the moisture to absorb. Hence, it’d be a good choice for first-time potting only.
- Airy
- High drainage formula
- Ready to use mix
- Comes with gardening gloves
- May not be suitable for repotting
Best Succulent Fertilizer Comparison Table
| Product | Item Form | Dimensions | Volume | NPK Ratio | Feeding Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perfect Plants Succulent Fertilizer | Granules | 5″ x 2.8″ x 0.7″ | 5oz | 13-11-11 | Once Every Six Months |
| Espoma Organic Cactus Plant Food | Liquid | 1.88″ x 2.75″ x 7.25″ | 8fl oz | 1-2-2 | Every 2 to 4 Weeks |
| Miracle-Gro Succulent Plant Food | Liquid | 1.95″ x 8.25″ x 2.88″ | 8fl oz | 0.5-1-1 | Every 2 Weeks |
| Cute Farms Succulent Fertilizer | Liquid | 7.72″ x 4.72″ x 2.72″ | 8fl oz | 2-2-2 | Once a Month |
| EarthPods Cactus & Succulent Plant Food | Capsules | 2.5″ x 2.5″ x 2.75″ | 3.52oz | N/A | Every 2 to 3 Weeks |
| Grow More 3130 | Liquid | 6″ x 6″ x 4″ | 16fl oz | 1-7-6 | Every 2 Weeks During the Growing Season |
| Schultz Cactus Plus | Liquid | 1.88″ x 2.88″ x 4.75″ | 4fl oz | 2-7-7 | Every Watering |
| Hoffman 10404 | Soil Mix | 4″ x 10″ x 15″ | 40oz | N/A | N/A |
Buying Guide For The Best Succulent Fertilizer
Sure, there’s nothing like the ingredient list that influences purchase decisions. The ultimate purpose of fertilizer is to assist the growth cycle, and you wouldn’t want to compromise on that for anything! But there are some secondary factors that most homeowners take into consideration before taking a call.
In the following buyer’s guide, we quickly walk you through some sought-after features.
-
Physical Form
Quite evidently, fertilizers are available in both solid and liquid forms. Furthermore, liquid fertilizers can also include foam and spray types, while solid fertilizers consist of capsules and granules. For the latter, all you have to do is sprinkle them around the base and lightly mix them with the first 2 inches of topsoil.
On the other hand, liquid fertilizers are considered to be a bit more convenient. Simply spray near the roots and water as usual. Similarly, the pump bottles require you to pump the fertilizer near the roots. Generally, most liquid fertilizers can be either dissolved or used directly.
Capsules or pods work in more or less the same way. The instructions tell you to poke little holes in the soil and push them in. Then, water as regular. The thick outer coating breaks down to release the nutrients over time. However, certain brands may ask you to break open the capsule and sprinkle the ingredients.
-
NPK Ratio
In our opinion, the NPK ratio to go for largely depends on the plant’s requirement. For instance, if discoloration is an issue, we’d suggest choosing a fertilizer that has a high nitrogen content. Likewise, phosphorus is a key ingredient that keeps plants rotting at bay. Other than that, a balanced NPK ratio like 2-2-2 is ideal for complete development.
-
Organic Vs. Non-Organic
Organic fertilizers derive most of their ingredients from natural sources. Their eco-friendly properties reduce the risk of contaminating nearby water sources, if any. Moreover, if you accidentally use more than the instructed amount, they are less likely to cause damage. But we’d strongly recommend following the instructions to avoid any mishap.
Non-organic fertilizers may contain some amount of naturally derived nutrients to maintain a nice balance. If a package doesn’t mention anything, the fertilizer is usually considered to be non-organic.
-
Plant Food Vs. Fertilizer
Plant foods are preferred for varieties that lack the essential micronutrients beneficial for growth. Alternatively, fertilizers provide the plant with an adequate amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. If you’re confident that the environment or soil type can furnish the required micronutrients, we’d advise going for a fertilizer. But it’s also not unusual for homeowners to supply a mix of plant food and fertilizer to their beloved greens.
-
Reapplication Time
Since succulents don’t need frequent watering, you may go for a fertilizer that needs to be reapplied once in 2 months or more. Again, the choice will depend on the specific succulent type as it may need watering once in 2 weeks. Whatever be the case, make sure you adhere to the recommended dosage.
-
Packaging
To ensure proper storage, ensure that the package is sealable or the bottle is leak-proof.
-
Indoor-Outdoor Use
Generally, any fertilizer that’s meant for succulents can be used for indoor and outdoor plants. That said, certain products explicitly mention their outdoor utility, and these are the ones that have low-odor formulas.
Conclusion
The list was long because we didn’t want to miss out on any deserving product. And we’re quite sure that you have found the one for your greens. But if you’re still in two minds, let us ease your confusion by naming our top 3 favorites.
While the Aquatic Arts Succulent Fertilizer has a long-lasting formula, the Plants Succulent Fertilizer is one of the best granular fertilizers on the market. And with the GrowBetter Organic Cactus & Succulent Fertilizer, you can grow both ornamental and edible succulents.
On that note, it’s time for us to draw the curtains. Hope our efforts help you find the best product according to your needs. And when you have it, don’t overlook the instructions on the package!
Agree with our verdict? Let us know in the comments down below. Till we meet again, happy gardening!
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