When it comes to cultivating acid-loving plants like blueberries, azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias, the type of fertilizer you use matters immensely. Liquid fertilizer is especially effective for these plants because it delivers nutrients directly and quickly to the roots, ensuring efficient uptake. But not all fertilizers are created equal—choosing the right formulation and timing your applications correctly can make the difference between thriving and struggling plants.
Plants that prefer acidic soil often struggle in neutral or alkaline conditions. They need targeted nutrients that support healthy root development and optimal foliage growth. Here are the key nutrients acid-loving plants need most:
Before diving into specific products, consider these core nutrients and why they matter:
Nitrogen (N): Promotes lush, green foliage. Vital for chlorophyll production.
Phosphorus (P): Encourages strong root systems and flower development.
Potassium (K): Enhances overall plant health, resistance to disease, and cold tolerance.
Sulfur (S): Crucial for pH regulation and amino acid synthesis.
Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn): Essential micronutrients for chlorophyll synthesis and enzyme activation.
Products like SULFOMIXand Ugarit Grapes, which are rich in iron, zinc, manganese, and sulfur, cater well to the nutritional needs of acid-loving plants.
Acid-loving plants not only require certain nutrients, but they also flourish in low pH conditions. This is where pH-lowering liquid fertilizers excel.
Some effective options include:
Phosphoric Acid 85% w/v: Offers a dual function—supplying phosphorus and reducing soil pH quickly.
Ugarit K-T-S 70: High in potassium and sulfur, this liquid blend is perfect for boosting flower quality while maintaining low pH levels.
For ongoing pH management, SULPHOMIN provides nitrogen and sulfur while enhancing organic matter content in the soil, improving microbial activity and nutrient cycling.
How Often to Feed Acid-Loving Plants
The frequency of applying liquid fertilizer depends on the plant type, soil condition, and growth stage. Here’s a general guide to help you structure your feeding schedule effectively:
Early Spring (Pre-Bloom): Begin with a balanced liquid fertilizer like Ugarit 27-27-27 + TE to support vigorous root and shoot development.
Mid-Spring to Summer: Use high-phosphorus, potassium-rich blends like Ugarit 10-65-10 or Super DKP to enhance blooming and fruit set.
Late Summer to Early Fall: Shift to formulations with more potassium and less nitrogen, such as Ugarit Multi, to prepare plants for winter dormancy.
Apply every 2 to 4 weeks during active growth periods. Reduce frequency as temperatures drop or growth slows.
Specific Products Tailored for Blueberries, Azaleas & More
Different acid-loving plants have unique nutrient needs. Tailoring your fertilizer choice based on the crop can lead to better results.
Here are specific product recommendations:
Blueberries:
Biofast: With 12-12-12 NPK and high humic and fulvic acid content, this gel formulation improves nutrient uptake in sandy, acidic soils.
Ugarit 10-0-5+ Organic Matter: Adds organic content while delivering nitrogen and potassium, ideal for blueberry root systems.
Azaleas and Rhododendrons:
SULFOMIX: Its high sulfur and trace element content corrects chlorosis and boosts overall vigor.
Ugarit Beet: Provides essential micronutrients like boron and zinc to promote robust flowering.
Camellias and Gardenias:
Ugarit 10-10-40 + TE: Perfect for prolonged blooming phases.
CALCIMAG: Supports calcium and magnesium balance critical for consistent flowering.
Consistent monitoring of soil pH is crucial when applying liquid fertilizer to acid-loving plants. Over time, repeated applications of alkaline fertilizers can raise soil pH, undermining plant health.
Best Practices for Soil pH Management:
Test Monthly: Use a digital pH meter or soil test kit.
Maintain pH Between 4.5 and 6.0: Most acid-lovers prefer this range.
Avoid Over-Fertilization: Overuse of nitrogen-rich products like SULPHOMIN can lead to salt buildup, affecting pH.
Table: pH Range Suitability for Common Acid-Loving Plants
Plant Type
Ideal Soil pH
Blueberries
4.5 – 5.5
Azaleas
5.0 – 6.0
Rhododendrons
4.5 – 6.0
Camellias
5.0 – 6.5
Bring Out the Best in Your Acid-Loving Plants
Choosing the right liquid fertilizer for acid-loving plants ensures vibrant blooms, flavorful fruits, and sustained plant vigor. With premium formulations like Biofast, SULFOMIX, and Phosphoric Acid 85%, your garden can thrive even in challenging soil conditions.
Visit our product catalog to explore more advanced solutions from YaraFert, or contact our expert agronomy team for a custom fertilizer plan tailored to your plant varieties and regional soil profiles.
Take the first step toward healthier, more productive plants—discover the full range of Yarafert liquid fertilizers today!
