When to Fertilise Clivias

Fertilising clivias at the right time makes the difference between a leafy green clump and a spectacular flowering display. Clivias need regular feeding in their active growth phase, but they also require a complete break during their winter rest. The ideal routine is to fertilise every 4–6 weeks from spring through autumn using a balanced formula like CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid NPK 20-20-20, and stop completely in winter.

Seasonal Feeding Rhythm

Clivias are seasonal plants that rely on rhythm. In spring, they use stored energy from winter to produce flowers, and feeding at this stage replenishes their reserves. Summer is their main growth period, when regular feeding builds strong clumps and prepares for the following season. Autumn is a wind-down phase where one last feed helps the plant store energy before winter dormancy.

The Importance of Winter Rest

Unlike many garden perennials, clivias require a cool, drier winter to trigger flower spikes. Feeding during this period interrupts the dormancy and can stop them from blooming. The best practice is to withhold fertiliser completely in winter, water lightly, and allow cooler night temperatures to initiate buds for the following spring.

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How Often to Fertilise

In their active growing season (spring to early autumn), clivias should be fed every 4–6 weeks. For potted clivias, feeding slightly more often is recommended, as nutrients wash out faster through container soil. Each feed should be applied to already moist soil to prevent root burn.

Best Fertiliser Type

The most reliable option is a balanced liquid fertiliser. Granular fertilisers risk burning the crown if applied too close, while single-nutrient feeds don’t provide complete support. CompleteGrow All Purpose NPK 20-20-20 provides equal nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, ensuring clivias maintain green leaves, strong roots, and reliable blooms.

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Practical Feeding Schedule

Spring: Start feeding as flowers emerge. Apply CompleteGrow 20-20-20 every 4–6 weeks.
Summer: Continue regular feeding to strengthen roots and clumps.
Autumn: Give a final feed before cooling weather to prepare for dormancy.
Winter: Stop fertilising completely. Provide a cool, dry rest to trigger next year’s flowers.

Best Fertiliser Recommendation

For consistent flowering and deep green foliage, the best choice is CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid Fertiliser NPK 20-20-20. Apply at 4 ml per litre every 4–6 weeks in the growing season, and pause completely in winter. This cycle mimics their natural rhythm and guarantees stronger flowering year after year.

FAQs

Can I fertilise clivias in winter? No — feeding in winter disrupts dormancy and prevents flowering.
How soon after flowering should I feed? Resume feeding immediately after flowers fade to help the plant recover.
Do clivias in pots need more feeding? Yes — nutrients leach faster, so feed every 4 weeks in spring and summer.
Is slow-release fertiliser enough? It helps, but liquid feeds like CompleteGrow 20-20-20 give faster and more controlled results.