Most people know that plants "need fertiliser." Few understand that there's a fundamental difference between a mineral fertiliser, a biostimulant, and a soil conditioner — and that each has a specific role, a right moment, and a dose that matters.
In this article I'll show you exactly what I use, in which situations, and how I measure results. Everything available in Romania.
Why I Measure PPM — and Why You Should Too
Before talking products: one tool — a PPM meter (parts per million). It's a small device that measures the concentration of dissolved salts in water — essentially how "loaded" the liquid is that we're giving our plants.
Why does it matter? Because over-fertilisation is one of the most common causes of indoor plant death. Roots burn, the plant stresses, leaves yellow just like in nutrient deficiency — and many people misdiagnose it.
The values I work with:
- Regular watering with diluted Compo: 200–300 PPM — gentle, consistent, effective
- Less frequent fertilisation (every 2–3 weeks): up to 800 PPM
- Plain tap water: always check first — in many Romanian cities it already reads 200–400 PPM
A PPM meter is inexpensive on eMAG and is a tool I recommend to anyone serious about plant care.
The Products I Use
Compo — Universal Liquid Fertiliser
Compo is the base of my fertilising routine. I add it at every watering, in a small dose:
- 1 ml per 1 litre of water
- I check PPM before and after — targeting 200–300 PPM total
- For less frequent fertilising (every 2–3 weeks), I increase the dose to reach 600–800 PPM
This approach — small, consistent doses — is better than occasional large doses. Roots receive nutrients gradually, without shocks.
When I don't use Compo:
- In winter when the plant is dormant — I reduce to once every 3–4 weeks or stop entirely
- Immediately after repotting — stressed roots can't absorb efficiently
Alga 600 — Organic Marine Algae Conditioner
Alga 600 is not a classic fertiliser — it's an organic biostimulant certified by ECOCERT, based on seaweed extracts. It works differently: stimulating microbial activity in the soil, strengthening the root system, and increasing the plant's natural resilience.
How I use it:
- Once every 2–3 weeks, alternating with Compo
- Dose according to the label, diluted in water
- I prefer it in spring and autumn — transition periods when plants need immune support
Why I alternate Compo with Alga 600:
One week mineral nutrients (Compo), the next organic biostimulant (Alga). Roots absorb more efficiently, the soil stays biologically active, and the plant is more resistant to stress and pests.
Radifarm (Valagro) — Root Stimulator
Radifarm is an Italian product from Valagro's professional range. It acts specifically on roots — stimulating new root formation, accelerating establishment after transplant, and helping damaged roots recover.
When I use it:
- At every repotting or transplant — added to watering water immediately after
- When rooting cuttings — significantly accelerates the process
- When bringing a new plant home and acclimatising it
Radifarm comes from professional agriculture and many hobbyists don't know it. The difference compared to standard potting mix is visible within 7–10 days.
Megafol (Valagro) — Anti-Stress Biostimulant
Megafol is the product I reach for in stressful situations. It contains amino acids and vitamins that help the plant recover quickly from a difficult episode.
When I use it:
- After severe drying out — the plant went too long without water
- After pesticide treatments — any chemical treatment is a stress event
- After pest infestation — recovery after mite or insect attack
- Once a month in winter — preventively, to compensate for heating-dry-air stress
- Foliar application — sprayed directly on leaves, in the evening
Tip: Megafol and Radifarm can be combined in the same watering water after transplanting — together they make for an excellent rapid recovery.
My Complete Schedule at a Glance
| Situation | Product | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Regular watering | Compo 1ml/l | Every watering |
| Concentrated feed | Compo higher dose | Every 2–3 weeks |
| Organic boost | Alga 600 | Every 2–3 weeks, alternating with Compo |
| Transplant / cuttings | Radifarm | Once, immediately after |
| Stress, recovery | Megafol | As needed + preventively in winter |
Where to Find These Products in Romania
- Compo — most garden centres, Leroy Merlin, Dedeman, eMAG
- Alga 600 — eMAG, specialist online shops
- Radifarm and Megafol — eMAG, agricultural suppliers, phytopharmacies
If you're used to Ukrainian or Moldovan products, you may not find the same brands — the Romanian market has different distribution. Good news: Valagro (Radifarm, Megafol) is an Italian brand available across Europe.
Conclusion
Fertilising isn't about adding as much as possible. It's about consistent doses, correct timing, and measurement tools. A PPM meter and a clear schedule do more than any expensive product used randomly.
If you'd like to know exactly what and when to use for your specific plants, book a consultation — I'll create a personalised plan.
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