Can Urea Be Used on the Money Tree? A Detailed Guide to Fertilization Methods

I. Fertilization Timing

The money tree needs a base fertilizer when it is potted, usually done in spring. After that, during its growing season, it needs to be fertilized 2-3 times a month so that the plant can grow better. Before the onset of winter, one application of fertilizer can be added to improve the plant's cold resistance, so that it can overwinter better. Once winter arrives, no more fertilizing is needed, otherwise it will cause fertilizer burn and affect the plant's development.

II. Fertilizer Selection

Depending on the different stages, the fertilizer chosen for the money tree also varies. For example, the base fertilizer is mostly composted cake fertilizer or compound fertilizer; the compound fertilizer must be a slow-release type, so that it can provide nutrients continuously. Once it reaches the growing season, the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium elements need to be supplemented comprehensively, generally using urea and potassium dihydrogen phosphate.

III. How to Fertilize

Depending on the type of fertilizer, the fertilization method is also different. The base fertilizer is usually a solid fertilizer, which needs to be buried at the bottom of the potting soil so that it can take effect slowly. During the growing season, liquid fertilizer is usually added; this kind of fertilizer can simply be watered on and is easily absorbed by the roots. If it is a solid fertilizer, the soil needs to be pushed aside and the fertilizer buried in, but it must be kept away from the roots to avoid causing burns.

IV. Points to Note

When fertilizing the money tree, special attention must be paid to the concentration. For example, the concentration of urea should be kept at around 0.2%, and the concentration of potassium dihydrogen phosphate at 0.1%; in this way, the effect will be better after the two are mixed. If the concentration is too high and some element exceeds the limit, it will often affect the plant's development. For example, too much nitrogen will lead to leggy growth, affecting its appearance, and it may also lodge.