Best Fertiliser for Ranunculus in Australia

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser throughout the cool-season growth cycle. For a simple, reliable plan: feed a 20-20-20 + micronutrients liquid at half strength as shoots appear, then at full strength every 10–14 days through active growth and bloom. Reduce after flowering so corms can recharge before dormancy.

Ideal NPK: Balanced (e.g., 20-20-20) to support roots, foliage, and flowers equally.
Timing: Start when sprouts are 2–3 cm tall; continue until flowers finish.
pH target: Slightly acidic to neutral soil, pH 6.0–6.8.
Containers vs beds: Containers leach nutrients faster—feed a bit more often.

Recommended: CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid (NPK 20-20-20 + Micros)

Best overall for ranunculus: Balanced NPK fuels roots, stems, and flower buds equally.
Micronutrient support: Prevents yellowing (iron, magnesium) and weak stems (boron, manganese).
Fast uptake: Water-soluble for quick response in cool soils; ideal for pots and beds.
Simple plan: One product all season—no confusing swaps or extra bottles.

Why this works: ranunculus are heavy feeders with a short, intense growth window. A balanced liquid keeps nutrients available exactly when plants need them, without forcing leafy growth at the expense of blooms.

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How to Feed Ranunculus with CompleteGrow

Dilution & application

Half strength (establishment): 5 mL fertiliser per 1 L water.
Full strength (active growth & bloom): 10 mL per 1 L water.
Garden beds: Apply 1–2 L of solution per m² (aim to wet the root zone, not the leaves).
Containers: For a 30 cm pot, apply 1–1.5 L of solution until slight runoff.

Australia timing guide (adjust a few weeks by local climate)

Sprout stage (2–3 weeks after planting): Half strength weekly, starting when shoots are 2–3 cm tall.
Active growth (late winter): Full strength every 10–14 days. If growth is very lush with fewer buds, drop to ¾ strength for two feeds.
Bloom (spring): Continue full strength every 10–14 days. Water early and feed soil (avoid petals).
Post-bloom recharge (3–4 weeks): Half strength every 2–3 weeks, then stop as leaves yellow and die back.

Quality control & troubleshooting

Pale new leaves (iron deficiency): Add one half-strength feed the following week; ensure pH 6.0–6.8 for micronutrient availability.
Leafy but few flowers (too much nitrogen): Skip one feed, then resume at ½–¾ strength; keep plants in full sun.
Salt build-up in pots: Every 4–6 weeks, flush containers with plain water until it drains freely; resume normal feeding next watering.
Hot spells (>28°C): Feed at half strength and water early morning to reduce stress.
Mix order: Fill can with water → add CompleteGrow → stir → apply. Don’t mix in the same can with lime or highly alkaline additives.
Foliar option (optional): 2–3 mL/L as a fine morning mist on leaves only (never flowers), when a quick pick-up is needed.

Soil & pH tips

Target pH 6.0–6.8 for best nutrient uptake. In alkaline soils, rely on the liquid feed rather than adding strong lime.
Improve heavy clay with coarse compost and sharp sand for drainage; ranunculus dislike waterlogging.
Mulch lightly (kept off crowns) to stabilise moisture during bud set and flowering.

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Fertiliser & Dormancy FAQ

What’s the best fertiliser formulation for ranunculus?

A balanced liquid like CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid (20-20-20 + micros). It evenly supports roots (P), foliage (N), and blooms (K), with trace elements to prevent yellowing and weak stems.

How often should I feed in pots versus garden beds?

Pots: every 7–10 days (nutrients leach faster). Beds: every 10–14 days. Use half strength for seedlings and during heat, full strength for peak growth and bloom.

Should I keep fertilising after flowers finish?

Yes—for 3–4 weeks at half strength. This recharges the corms. Stop feeding once foliage naturally yellows and the plant enters dormancy.

Can I use slow-release granules instead of liquid?

You can, but liquid feeding is more precise in cool seasons and containers. If you do apply slow-release at planting, still use CompleteGrow liquid during peak growth for consistent results.

How do I avoid “all leaves, no flowers”?

Ensure full sun, don’t over-nitrogen, and follow the balanced schedule. If plants are too leafy, skip one feed, then resume at ½–¾ strength and keep watering consistent at bud time.