Houseplant Fertilizer Dilution Calculator

How This Tool Works

This calculator helps you create the correct fertilizer dilution by calculating exact amounts of fertilizer and water needed based on your desired ratio. The calculator uses the ratio to determine what portion of your total solution should be fertilizer versus water. For example, a 1:10 ratio means for every 1 part fertilizer, you need 10 parts water. If you want 1000mL total, that means approximately 91mL fertilizer and 909mL water (1 part + 10 parts = 11 total parts; 1000mL ÷ 11 = ~91mL per part).

Proper dilution is crucial to avoid fertilizer burn (root damage from too-strong solutions) and provide optimal nutrition to your plants. Too strong a solution can damage roots and leaves, while too weak a solution may not provide enough nutrients. The calculator ensures you get the exact ratio recommended for your specific fertilizer type and plant needs. Always follow your fertilizer manufacturer's specific instructions, as different products have different dilution requirements.

Common Dilution Ratios

• 1:10 - Standard houseplant fertilizer (most common)
• 1:20 - Weak solution for sensitive plants or frequent feeding
• 1:5 - Strong solution for heavy feeders (use with caution)
• 1:50 - Very weak solution for seedlings or delicate plants
• Note: Always check your fertilizer\'s specific instructions as ratios vary by product

FAQ

• How do I dilute fertilizer for houseplants?
  Most liquid fertilizers are diluted at a 1:10 ratio (1 part fertilizer to 10 parts water). For example, 10ml fertilizer mixed with 100ml water. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions, as ratios vary by product.
• What is a 1:10 dilution ratio?
  A 1:10 ratio means 1 part fertilizer to 10 parts water. For 1000ml total solution, you would use approximately 91ml fertilizer and 909ml water. This is a common ratio for standard houseplant fertilizers.
• How often should I fertilize houseplants?
  Most houseplants benefit from fertilizing every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when plants are dormant. Always use diluted fertilizer to avoid root burn.
• Can I use too much fertilizer?
  Yes, over-fertilizing can cause fertilizer burn, root damage, and leaf browning. Always dilute according to instructions and err on the side of weaker solutions. It's better to fertilize more frequently with weaker solutions than to use strong concentrations.
• What if my fertilizer instructions say different ratios?
  Always follow the manufacturer's specific instructions. Different fertilizer types (liquid, granular, organic) have different dilution requirements. This calculator helps you measure the exact amounts once you know your required ratio.