Cactus and Succulent Fertilisers.

[Bonsai2]

As someone new to Cactus and succulent growing, I have read some of the posts on the use of fertilisers and there are a number of opinions which are helpful but also slightly confusing.

I see that commercially there appears to be a wide range of foods advertised. Cactus Focus, Miracle- Gro for indoor plants and Tomato Food are three of the recommendations. One grower recommends tomato food for increased flowers.

I would be grateful for suggestions from experienced growers.

Many thanks

Bonsai2

[D^L]

Most people advocate Chempac 8 or the near equivalent, Garden Direct low nitrogen. I use this but add some sodium nitrate to give a balanced fertiliser with a readily accessible form of nitrogen, as suggested following some trials in the US a few years ago.
Whatever make sure it is rich in a wide range of trace elements.
Cheers
David Lambie
Bristol

[juster]

There are a variety of opinions about feeding and there have been some interesting discussions on the Forum about this topic. I also use Chempak 8, about once a month between May and September, I think some people use tomato feed with good results.

[Bonsai2]

Thank you Juster and David.

I will start off with Chempak.

[gerald]

You could even use the Chempak Bonsai fertiliser if you have that already, it's quite similar to their cactus fertiliser.

[el48tel]

When you read about the requirements of each INDIVIDUAL plant you discover that they all differ like all other species on the planet. To wish for a universal solution is a big ask.
The only commonality in the data sheets I have seen is the need for the element potassium to be more than that for nitrogen. Vitax and Chempak 8 achieve this. Tomorite is contrary to this.

[MikeDom]

When you read about the requirements of each INDIVIDUAL plant you discover that they all differ like all other species on the planet. To wish for a universal solution is a big ask.
The only commonality in the data sheets I have seen is the need for the element potassium to be more than that for nitrogen. Vitax and Chempak 8 achieve this. Tomorite is contrary to this.

Agreed. I use Chempak but don't use the Low Nitrogen one. I use High Potash, Fully balanced and High Nitrogen, but not at full strength. For example, I use High Nitrogen for the caudex succulents that grow in nature in a nutrient rich soil and High Potash for cacti and mesembs. A bit of research and seeing how your plants respond is more important than a universal application.