Even though weigelas are pretty low-maintenance, they still need a little boost now and then to look their best. However, more isn’t always better—overdoing it can actually do more harm than good. Let’s dive into the best ways to feed your weigela so it stays happy and healthy.
What’s the Best Fertilizer for Weigelas?
The easiest (and cheapest!) way to feed your weigela is by mixing some good old-fashioned compost into the soil. If you prefer store-bought options, organic slow-release fertilizers or a liquid fertilizer mixed into your watering can work great too. Here’s what you want to look for on the label:
- Nitrogen
- Potassium
- Copper sulfate
Nitrogen is the fuel for growth, while potassium is essential for those gorgeous blooms. Copper sulfate is a nice bonus because it helps protect the plant from leaf spot disease. Just a heads-up: if you over-fertilize, your shrub might grow “water sprouts”—long, lanky shoots that won’t produce any flowers.
When and How Often Should You Fertilize?
Spring is the perfect time to give your weigela a snack, whether you’re using compost or a slow-release organic fertilizer. This gives the shrub the energy it needs for the growing season and helps it develop new flower buds (which, fun fact, actually start forming in the fall!).
Occasionally, a light feeding in early autumn can be helpful if you’re using organic options. If you prefer liquid fertilizer, you’ll usually need to apply it more frequently between April and July—just be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle for the right dosage.
When winter rolls around, put the fertilizer away. Your plant is dormant and doesn’t need the extra nutrients; adding them now could actually lead to over-fertilization.
Feeding Weigelas in Containers
Generally speaking, potted plants are a bit hungrier than those in the ground, and weigelas are no exception. Since there’s less soil and fewer natural soil organisms in a container, you’ll want to fertilize regularly from April through July.
If you’ve just moved your plant into fresh potting soil, you can skip the fertilizer for the first few weeks after transplanting. And if your weigela starts looking a bit thin on flowers despite being well-fed, it might be time for a rejuvenation prune rather than more food!
