Fertiliser for Natives (Australia Guide)

Most Australian natives evolved in low-phosphorus soils. That’s why the best fertiliser for natives is low-P, with steady nitrogen, supportive potassium, and essential trace elements (iron, manganese, magnesium). Feed lightly, at the right time, on evenly moist soil for strong colour and flowering—without burning sensitive roots.

Native Plant Sensitivity (Know Your Group)

Highly P-Sensitive (Use Very Low-P)

Banksia, Hakea, Grevillea, Telopea (waratah), Dryandra.
Choose: Very low-P native blends; avoid manures and superphosphate.

Moderately Sensitive (Low-P)

Callistemon (bottlebrush), Leptospermum (tea-tree), Melaleuca, Correa, Westringia.
Choose: Low-P, balanced K, full micros.

More Tolerant (Still Avoid High-P)

Lilly pilly (Syzygium), Acacia (many), Eucalyptus (juveniles), Kunzea.
Choose: Low-to-moderate P; avoid poultry manure spikes.

Golden rules: (1) Keep phosphorus low, (2) feed little-and-often in growth seasons, (3) never fertilise dry soil, (4) mulch 5–7 cm to buffer moisture and temperature.

158648337_204728487859263_5379544115472053270_n (1)

382582243_1353181478701268_1114153226476296427_n (1)

What to Look For in a Native Fertiliser

Low phosphorus (P): Aim for very low P for Banksia/Grevillea/Hakea/Waratah; low P for most other natives.
Balanced N & K: Nitrogen drives foliage; potassium supports flowering, colour and resilience.
Full trace elements: Fe, Mn, Mg, Zn, Cu, B—vital for chlorophyll and bloom quality, especially on sandy soils.
Form: Slow-release granules for beds; liquid/soluble for containers or quick corrections.
Soil fit: Sandy soils benefit from organics + slow-release; clay needs aeration/gypsum + careful watering.

When to Fertilise (Australia)

Autumn: Light feed to support root growth and bud initiation in mild zones.
Late winter / early spring: Main feed as growth starts. Ideal for flowering shrubs.
Summer: In hot regions, use dilute liquids only if plants are actively growing and well watered.
Winter (cold zones): Minimal feeding; focus on drainage and mulch.

How Much to Use (Safe, Practical Guidance)

Garden beds: Apply per-label for natives; start low on P-sensitive groups. Water in well.
Containers: Use smaller, more frequent doses (liquid every 3–4 weeks in growth). Flush pots occasionally to prevent salt build-up.
Young plants: Under-feed rather than over-feed; prioritise even moisture and mulch.

Shopping tip: Browse low-P native fertilisers (granular and liquid) here: CompleteGrow Fertiliser. Filter for “native” or “low phosphorus” options suited to your plant group.

14156660_333236583676118_203667695_n (1)

283121075_450537736760762_2128287289116990564_n (1)

Soil Fit: Sandy, Loam, Clay

Sandy: Low nutrient holding → add composted bark + coarse mulch; use slow-release + supplemental liquid with micros.
Loam: Easiest; maintain mulch and light seasonal feeds; watch P levels on sensitive species.
Clay: Improve structure (gypsum, organic matter); avoid waterlogging; feed lightly and ensure drainage.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

High-P manures or general “flower & fruit” spikes: Can burn roots of P-sensitive natives.
Fertilising dry soil: Always water first—then feed—then water in again.
Over-feeding in heat: Dilute liquids during hot spells; prioritise deep morning watering.
Ignoring pH: Many natives prefer slightly acidic soils; high pH locks out iron/manganese → yellowing between veins.

Troubleshooting (Quick Fixes)

Yellowing between veins (chlorosis): Check pH; apply iron/manganese tonic; use low-P feed on moist soil.
Pale, slow growth: Increase nitrogen modestly; ensure potassium and full trace elements; maintain mulch and even moisture.
Leaf tip burn: Salt build-up or overfeeding—flush thoroughly and reduce dosage.
Poor flowering: Ensure adequate K, correct pruning time for the species, and avoid late heavy nitrogen.

FAQs — Fertiliser for Native Plants

What NPK is best for natives?
Low phosphorus with balanced N and K. Exact ratios vary; prioritise “native/low-P” labelled products with full trace elements.

How often should I feed natives?
In beds, light seasonal feeds (autumn and late winter/early spring). In pots, little-and-often liquids every 3–4 weeks during active growth.

Can I use compost or seaweed?
Yes—compost and seaweed/kelp tonics are generally safe and helpful, but still keep P low for sensitive groups.

Are all natives P-sensitive?
No—sensitivity varies. Grevillea/Banksia/Hakea/Waratah are very sensitive; Lilly pilly/Kunzea/Melaleuca are more tolerant but still don’t need high P.