Aussie plants may be tough, but they still need a good feed!
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Australian native plants are extremely hardy. They can survive and, better yet, thrive in the harsh climate conditions across Australia. However, this tough perception has given rise to the idea that Aussie plants don’t need any attention at all.
In fact, it is quite the opposite for many Aussie plants. Natives, while often easy to maintain, do require the same amount of attention and care as any other plant. This includes fertilisation and providing supplements when they’re in need of a little boost.
Now, let’s ask the question; which fertiliser is best?
Just like exotic and non-indigenous plants, natives respond very well to fertilisation. And in most cases, you can use run-of-the-mill and all-purpose fertiliser like blood and bone or dynamic lifter.
Using fertiliser on your native plants
There’s only one issue that can arise when using fertiliser on Aussie natives: phosphorus.
Many Australian native plants are phosphorus sensitive, meaning that they do not like soil that has lots of acidity in it.
This is because Australian soil is naturally low in phosphorus, due to extensive weathering, which has enabled natives to adapt to living with little to no phosphorus in their diet.
The Department of Primary Industries explains that while phosphorus is a vital ingredient in soil for any plant growth, Australian natives do not need as much as other plants.
When feeding your native plants, it is best to pick a fertiliser that is low in phosphorus or a general mix made from organic matter. This includes dynamic lifter, blood and bone manure, fertiliser mixes that are specifically made for feeding Australian natives or even your own compost.
And to answer the question, is blood and bone fertiliser liked by Australian native plants: yes it is!
How to apply fertiliser to natives
Fertiliser should be fed to native plants in a similar fashion to other plants in the garden. Here are the best tips for apply fertiliser to natives:
- Make sure the soil is moist in and around your plants before starting. Adding in fertiliser after rain is always a good idea, but it is still best to water it well in addition to any rainfall.
- Your fertiliser should be laid ideally in spring or autumn, when there is a temperate, mild climate and your plants are in stages of blooming or harvest.
- Think about the time and place you’re applying fertiliser, as it can get a bit smelly, so warn your friends and family!
You may also like:
The essential guide to Australian native trees
The ultimate guide to Australian native flowers
The essential guide to Australian native plants
The complete guide to edible Australian native plants
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