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Maidenhair ferns honestly have one of the prettiest textures of any indoor plant 🌿

The soft bright green leaves and thin dark stems make them look almost delicate compared to heavier foliage plants like monstera or philodendron. They give indoor spaces a calmer, softer and more natural feeling instantly.

The funny thing is almost everyone struggles with them at first.

One day the fern looks perfect, then suddenly parts of it start turning brown or crispy. That usually happens because maidenhair ferns react very quickly to dry air and inconsistent moisture.

They naturally prefer:

Bright indirect light

Higher humidity

Even moisture

Stable indoor temperatures

Protection from heaters and dry airflow

Dry indoor air is one of the biggest problems, especially in air-conditioned rooms. Their thin leaves lose moisture much faster than tougher indoor plants.

Another thing people overlook is depleted potting mix. Since maidenhair ferns grow entirely in containers indoors, nutrients gradually wash out over time. Weak growth and pale fronds can sometimes happen when the plant has not been fed for a long period.

That is why many indoor growers use an indoor plant fertiliser designed for leafy indoor plants rather than strong outdoor fertilisers.

Once the environment becomes more stable, maidenhair ferns are actually incredibly rewarding plants to grow. The fronds become fuller, softer and greener over time and create that relaxed indoor jungle aesthetic people love.

Boston ferns make indoor spaces feel softer instantly. 🌿

There is something about the long arching green fronds that completely changes the atmosphere of a room. They work beautifully in hanging baskets, bathrooms, shaded corners and bright indirect light near windows.

A healthy Boston fern gives indoor spaces a calmer and more tropical feeling without needing direct sunlight all day.

The problem is that many Boston ferns slowly decline indoors after the first few months. Brown tips appear, the leaves thin out, and the plant loses that lush full look it had originally.

Most of the time it comes down to:

Dry indoor air

Inconsistent watering

Too much direct sun

Old depleted potting mix

Boston ferns naturally prefer humid environments with steady moisture and filtered light. Once those conditions become more stable, the plant usually recovers surprisingly well.

They also respond well to gentle feeding during active growth since indoor potting mix gradually loses nutrients over time. That is why many indoor growers use an indoor plant fertiliser designed for leafy indoor plants rather than harsh outdoor fertilisers.

If your fern has yellow leaves, brown edges or drooping fronds, this full Boston fern care guide explains the most common indoor problems and how to fix them.

Indoor plant care advice usually starts with light and water. Bright indirect light. Let the topsoil dry. Don’t overwater. All good advice, but incomplete.

What’s rarely talked about is nutrition.

Indoor plants live in a closed system. Once a plant is in a pot, the nutrients available to it are limited. Potting mix comes with an initial supply, but every new leaf, stem, and root uses some of it. Indoors, there’s no rain to wash nutrients through the soil, no deep root zones to explore, and very little natural replenishment.

That’s why so many indoor plants follow the same pattern. They grow well at first. Then growth slows. New leaves come in smaller. Gaps between growth get longer. Nothing looks “wrong,” but nothing looks vibrant either.

This isn’t neglect. It’s depletion.

Plants don’t stop growing because they want to. They stop because something essential is missing.

One of the most misunderstood parts of plant care is fertiliser, especially the idea that it somehow forces unnatural growth. Fertiliser doesn’t create growth. It removes limits.

Plants need three primary nutrients in measurable amounts:

Nitrogen (N) for leaf growth and chlorophyll

Phosphorus (P) for root development and energy transfer

Potassium (K) for metabolic function, water regulation, and resilience

This is what the NPK ratio represents. Indoor foliage plants generally prefer a nitrogen-forward but balanced ratio. Enough nitrogen to support leaves, enough phosphorus to maintain roots, and enough potassium to keep the plant functioning smoothly.

Ratios like 16-4-14 are common for indoor plants because they support steady foliage growth without overwhelming the plant or encouraging weak, stretched growth. Indoors, growth is slower, light is limited, and feeding needs to reflect that reality.

This is why indoor-specific products like indoor plant fertiliser exist at all. They’re not stronger. They’re more precise.

Another common misconception is that indoor plants should only be fed during spring and summer. In reality, many indoor plants continue growing year-round, just at a slower pace. Reducing feeding makes sense when growth slows, but stopping entirely often leads to that familiar stalled look.

Consistent, low-dose feeding works better than occasional heavy applications. Liquid fertilisers make this easier because nutrients are immediately available and easier to control in small amounts.

If you’re curious how different formulations are designed for different plant needs, this overview of the fertiliser range breaks down why one formula doesn’t fit every situation.

Many plants people describe as “low maintenance” are simply tolerant of being underfed. They survive. They hold on. But they don’t thrive.

When nutrition is right, growth becomes predictable. Leaves size up again. Colour deepens. Plants handle stress better. Caring for them feels less like guessing and more like understanding.

Indoor plants aren’t fragile. They’re constrained.

Bird’s nest ferns are one of those indoor plants that instantly make a room feel calmer. The soft green fronds, tropical texture and flowing shape work perfectly in bedrooms, bathrooms, offices and shaded living spaces. They look lush without needing direct sun, which is why so many indoor plant lovers end up buying one.

The problem is that many bird’s nest ferns slowly start declining indoors after the first few months.

Leaves begin curling. Brown edges appear. Some fronds droop or fade in colour. Sometimes the centre of the plant even starts looking weak or pale. Most people assume they are watering incorrectly, but indoor nutrition is often part of the problem too.

Because bird’s nest ferns live inside containers, nutrients slowly disappear from the potting mix over time. Every watering gradually washes nutrients away, especially in free-draining indoor mixes. Eventually the plant may struggle to maintain strong healthy foliage without additional support.

That is why using the right indoor plant fertiliser can make such a difference for indoor foliage plants.

Bird’s nest ferns do not need heavy feeding or harsh outdoor fertilisers. A gentler indoor formula with an NPK ratio focused on foliage growth usually works much better. Balanced indoor feeding helps support greener fronds, steadier growth and healthier overall foliage indoors.

Of course, fertiliser is only part of the picture.

A healthy bird’s nest fern also needs:

Bright indirect light

Lightly moist but well-draining soil

Moderate humidity

Stable indoor temperatures

Good airflow

One mistake many indoor growers make is pouring water directly into the centre crown of the fern. Since new leaves emerge from the middle rosette, trapped moisture can sometimes lead to stress or rot if the plant stays wet for too long.

Once the environment becomes more stable, light feeding during active growth usually helps the plant maintain fuller and greener foliage over time.

Succulents are among the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow — but to keep them firm, colourful, and thriving, they need the right nutrition. A proper succulent fertilizer provides all the essential nutrients for slow, steady growth without overstimulating the roots or causing stretching.

Whether you grow aloe, echeveria, jade, or sedum, feeding with a balanced fertilizer for succulents ensures your plants maintain their shape, colour, and vitality all year round.

Why Succulents Need Fertilizer

Succulents store water, not nutrients. Over time, even high-quality potting soil loses essential minerals, leaving your plants pale or slow-growing. A mild, low-nitrogen fertilizer for succulent plants replaces what the soil can’t provide — without overwhelming their delicate roots.

The CompleteGrow Cactus & Succulent Plant Food Fertiliser Concentrate is expertly formulated for this purpose. Its NPK ratio of 2-7-7 supports:

Steady, compact growth without legginess.

Strong root structure and firm leaves.

Enhanced colour and resilience against heat or drought.

Balanced flowering response in species like Kalanchoe and Haworthia.

How to Use Fertilizer for Succulents

1. Dilution: Mix 3–4 mL of concentrate per 1 L of water. For small pots or seedlings, halve the strength.

2. Timing:

Spring–Summer: Feed every 3–4 weeks during active growth.

Autumn–Winter: Fertilise sparingly, only if plants show new growth.

3. Application:

Water lightly before feeding — never apply to dry soil.

Pour around the base until just moist.

Avoid letting fertilizer sit on leaves to prevent marks.

This method gives succulents exactly what they need: gentle, consistent nutrition that keeps them healthy without risk of overfertilisation.

For more care detail, see our guide: Best Fertiliser for Cactus & Succulent Plants.

Common Feeding Mistakes

Too much nitrogen: Leads to soft, stretched leaves.

Frequent watering: Washes out nutrients and risks rot.

Skipping feeds: Causes dull colour and weak roots over time.

Stick with a low-nitrogen, high-potassium formula like CompleteGrow Cactus & Succulent Fertiliser 2-7-7 for consistent, strong results.

FAQs About Succulent Fertilizer

What’s the best fertilizer for succulents? A gentle, low-nitrogen mix such as CompleteGrow Cactus & Succulent Fertiliser (2-7-7).

Can I use the same fertilizer for cacti and succulents? Yes — both share similar nutrient needs. The CompleteGrow 2-7-7 formula is suitable for all cactus and succulent species.

How often should I fertilize succulents? Feed monthly during warmer seasons and reduce frequency during winter dormancy.

Is liquid fertilizer better than slow-release pellets? Liquid fertilizer works faster and gives you precise control — ideal for indoor or potted succulents.

Will fertilizer make my succulents flower? Yes, phosphorus-rich fertilizer encourages flowering in mature plants when given adequate sunlight.

Final Thoughts

A good succulent fertilizer supports compact, colourful growth and keeps your plants healthy through every season. It’s not about feeding more — it’s about feeding right.

Complete Grow Advanced Formula – NPK 4‑18‑38 + CaMg

Meet your plant’s new favourite feed.

This high-performance powdered fertiliser is formulated with a strong NPK ratio (4-18-38) + added Calcium Nitrate and Magnesium Sulphate — perfect for fruiting crops, leafy greens, and hydroponic systems.

✅ High potassium for flowering & fruiting ✅ Supports strong roots & disease resistance ✅ Ideal for tomatoes, capsicums, leafy greens & herbs ✅ 100% water-soluble – great for fertigation or foliar spray ✅ Compatible with coco, soil, and hydroponic setups

Shop now →

Indoor plants add beauty and calm to your home — but to truly thrive, they need more than sunlight and water. Using the right indoor plant food gives your houseplants the nutrients they miss from natural soil environments. Balanced nutrition keeps leaves glossy, growth steady, and roots strong, even in low-light conditions.

If your indoor plants look pale, droopy, or have slow growth, it’s time to start feeding with a complete, gentle fertiliser made specifically for houseplants.

Why Indoor Plants Need Fertiliser

Plants in pots rely entirely on the nutrients you provide — and potting mix nutrients deplete within a few months. That’s why plant food for indoor plants is essential. It replenishes nitrogen (for leafy growth), phosphorus (for roots), and potassium (for overall health and colour).

The CompleteGrow Indoor Plant Food Concentrate is designed exactly for this purpose. It delivers balanced nutrition with a mild NPK ratio (16-4-14) — strong enough to promote growth, yet gentle enough for delicate roots and indoor environments.

It’s ideal for:

Houseplants and decorative foliage

Indoor flowering varieties (like peace lilies or anthuriums)

Potted office plants

Hanging baskets and indoor planters

How to Use Indoor Plant Food Correctly

The key to success is consistency and dilution. Overfeeding can cause leaf burn, while too little leads to poor growth. Follow this simple guide:

Mix: 3–4mL of CompleteGrow Indoor Plant Food Concentrate per 1L of water.

Apply: Every 2–3 weeks during active growth (spring–summer).

Winter care: Reduce to once every 6–8 weeks when growth slows.

Method: Water evenly through the soil until it drains slightly.

You can also use it as a foliar spray for quick nutrient absorption — mist the leaves lightly and avoid direct sunlight afterward.

CompleteGrow Indoor Plant Food Concentrate is non-toxic, odour-free, and safe for use indoors — perfect for households with pets or children.

Benefits of Using Indoor Plant Food

Encourages deep green, glossy leaves.

Boosts root strength and disease resistance.

Supports steady, year-round growth.

Prevents nutrient deficiency and leaf yellowing.

Safe for all indoor plant types — tropical, flowering, and foliage.

This concentrated formula is Australian-made using professional-grade nutrients — the same used by nursery growers, now bottled for home gardeners.

FAQs About Indoor Plant Fertiliser

Is plant food necessary for indoor plants? Yes. Without fertiliser, indoor plants eventually run out of nutrients in their potting mix, leading to slow growth and yellowing leaves.

How often should I feed indoor plants? Every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer, and monthly in cooler months.

What is the best indoor plant food? The CompleteGrow Indoor Plant Food Concentrate — gentle, effective, and balanced for all houseplants.

Can I use outdoor fertiliser on indoor plants? It’s not recommended — outdoor fertilisers are often too strong and can burn roots or create odours indoors.

Is liquid or granular fertiliser better for indoor plants? Liquid fertiliser is best. It mixes easily, delivers nutrients quickly, and allows precise control over feeding strength.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your houseplants with the right indoor plant food makes a huge difference — you’ll notice greener leaves, stronger stems, and healthier roots in just weeks.

Liquid fertilisers are one of the most efficient ways to keep your plants healthy, green, and productive. Unlike slow-release or granular options, a liquid fertiliser delivers nutrients instantly, allowing roots and leaves to absorb essential minerals right away. Whether you’re caring for vegetables, ornamentals, or indoor greenery, liquid plant food offers the perfect balance of convenience and performance.

You can explore CompleteGrow’s full range of liquid fertilisers here: https://completegrow.com.au/fertiliser/liquid-fertilizer/.

Why Liquid Fertiliser Works So Well

A liquid plant fertiliser is pre-dissolved in water, meaning the nutrients are available immediately for plant uptake. This allows for precise feeding and faster visible results. It’s especially beneficial in Australia’s changing climate, where soil nutrients can deplete quickly.

The best liquid fertilisers provide a complete blend of the three major macronutrients—nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K)—along with essential trace elements like calcium, magnesium, and iron.

CompleteGrow’s NPK 20-20-20 All Purpose Liquid Fertiliser is an excellent all-rounder. It promotes strong leaf and stem growth, robust root systems, and healthy flowering across all plant types.

For plants that require more flowering or fruiting power, the NPK 4-18-38 + Calcium & Magnesium provides the high-phosphorus boost needed for vibrant blooms and rich yields.

How to Use Liquid Fertiliser Effectively

Using a liquid plant food is simple: just dilute it with water and apply it evenly across the soil or as a foliar spray.

For general garden use:

Mix 4–6mL per 1L of water for soil application.

Water at the base of plants every 7–10 days during active growth.

For indoor or potted plants:

Use a half-strength mix (around 2–3mL per 1L) to prevent overfeeding.

Apply fortnightly to maintain rich colour and steady growth.

For vegetables:

Feed with a balanced formula such as CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 during early growth.

Once flowering begins, alternate with CompleteGrow NPK 4-18-38 + Calcium & Magnesium for better fruit set and flavour.

Liquid feeding ensures the nutrients reach the plant immediately, preventing deficiencies and improving soil biology over time.

Benefits of Using Liquid Fertilisers

Fast results: Nutrients are immediately available to the roots and leaves.

Flexible use: Perfect for both soil and hydroponic systems.

Precise control: Easier to measure and apply without overfeeding.

Even coverage: Spreads uniformly when watered or sprayed.

Compatible with any plant type: From vegetables to flowering ornamentals.

All CompleteGrow liquid fertilisers are Australian-made, professional-grade, and fully water-soluble—trusted by home gardeners and commercial growers alike.

FAQs About Liquid Plant Food

What is liquid plant food? It’s a water-based fertiliser that provides nutrients directly to plants through soil or leaves for faster absorption.

Is liquid fertiliser better than granular? Yes—liquids act faster and allow for easier dosage control, especially for container or hydroponic systems.

Can I use liquid fertiliser for vegetables? Absolutely. Use CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 during early stages and 4-18-38 + CaMg once plants begin fruiting.

How often should I apply liquid fertiliser? Every 1–2 weeks during active growth periods, or monthly for maintenance feeding.

Will liquid fertiliser harm my plants? No, not if diluted correctly. Always follow label directions and water in well after application.

Final Thoughts

Liquid fertilisers are a must-have for anyone who wants healthy, fast-growing, and productive plants. They’re quick to apply, easy to adjust, and give visible results within days.