When it make out to gardening , it ’s important to translate the indigence and preferences of unlike plant . Some flora thrive in acidic soil , while others prefer a more neutral or alkaline pH. Potash fertiliser , which is high in potassium , can increase the pH level in the soil . This can be beneficial for many plants , but there are sure plants that do not like potash .
One mathematical group of plants that does not appreciate the utilization of caustic potash fertilizer are loony toons - make out plant . These admit hydrangea , azaleas , and rhododendrons . These plants thrive in acidulous soils , with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.0 . potassium hydroxide fertilizer can conjure the pH level of the grunge , making it more alkaline , which is prejudicious to these acid - get laid plants . If the stain becomes too alkaline , these industrial plant may scramble to take up of the essence nutrient , result in yellowing farewell , stunted ontogenesis , and overall pitiful wellness .
I have personally experienced the negative effects of using caustic potash plant food on acid - have it away plant . A few years ago , I apply caustic potash to my hydrangeas in an endeavour to boost their growth . However , instead of thriving , the plants started to show signs of accent . The leaves turn yellow and the flowers were little than common . It was readable that the potash had disrupted the pH balance of the soil , making it unsuitable for these acid - loving plants .
It ’s important to take note that not all plants are sensitive to potash fertiliser . In fact , many plant benefit from the increased potassium levels that potash provides . However , there are certain works that prefer acidic or balanced pH soils and should be celebrate away from potash fertilizers .
In summation to hydrangeas , azalea , and rhododendron , other plants that do not care potash include blueberry , camellia , and ferns . These plant have specific soil requirements and thrive in acidulous atmospheric condition . tote up potash fertilizer to their soil can disrupt the pH residual and embarrass their growth .
To avoid the electronegative effects of potash on these plants , it ’s important to test the pH degree of your ground before applying any fertiliser . This can be done using a simple-minded soil testing kit or by sending a grease sample to a professional science laboratory . If the pH level is already on the alkaline side , it ’s good to avoid using potash fertilizer altogether and opt for a more worthy fertilizer that wo n’t raise the pH stratum .
If you do find that your stain is slightly acidulous and you still want to use potash fertilizer for other plants in your garden , there are ways to minimize the impact on battery-acid - loving plants . One approach is to apply the potassium hydroxide fertilizer away from the ascendent geographical zone of these plants , focusing more on the besiege area . This can help prevent lineal contact between the fertilizer and the root of sore plants .
Potash fertilizer can be good for many plants , but it should be avoided for acid - have sex plant life such as hydrangeas , azaleas , and rhododendrons . These industrial plant expand in acidic soils and surplus caustic potash can disrupt their nutritive uptake and overall health . It ’s significant to test the pH grade of your soil and take appropriate fertilizers based on the pauperization of your plants .
Caroline Bates
