Regular feeding of house plants is not automatic. Food should be given only when light intensity and temperatures are high enough for growth. Applying plant food that cannot be used can damage soil and plant. This can be minimised by leaching the soil before feeding. Soak the pot for 10 to 20 minutes in a container with water at about soil level. Then, as the last of the water is leaving the drainage holes, slowly pour another two litres or so of water through it.

Plant foods applied at about half the strength recommended for normal feeding are sufficient for most house plants. Never feed sick plants. Leave the feeding of newly bought or repotted plants for four to six weeks.