# How to Fertilize Leonotis Leonurus
Leonotis leonurus, or lion's paw, grows as a shrub-like perennial flower in tropical and subtropical regions and is an attractive summer annual in areas with frosty winters. The plant's wild appearance and bright orange flowers make it a natural addition to butterfly and wildflower gardens. The plant requires minimal fertilization to grow well, but increased blooming occurs with proper fertilization. Plants grown as perennials especially benefit from annual feeding, which replenishes the nutrients in the soil.
Things You'll Need
- Phosphate starter fertilizer
- 5-10-5 granular fertilizer
Instructions
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1
Dissolve a high-phosphate starter fertilizer in 1 gallon of water. Follow the packaging directions for the amount of fertilizer to use. Water newly planted leonotis with this solution immediately after transplantation. Water just enough to thoroughly moisten the soil to a 6-inch depth.
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2
Fertilize the plants every six weeks when they are actively growing during the spring and summer seasons. Begin fertilization for perennial leonotis in early spring at the first signs of new growth.
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3
Apply a 5-10-5 fertilizer blend at the lowest recommended rate on the package for your plant size. Sprinkle the fertilizer granules in a ring around the base of the leonotis, 6 inches away from the stem.
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4
Water the garden thoroughly, after applying the fertilizer, into the top 6 inches of soil. Immediate irrigation helps dissolve the fertilizer so the nutrients can soak into the root zone.
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