Comparison: Best Multi Purpose Liquid Plant Food (Updated | Nov 11th)

Look for a balanced N-P-K ratio (like 10-10-10 or 4-3-4) that supports foliage, root development, and flowering. Extras such as seaweed extract, chelated iron, or organic micronutrients can boost growth and improve plant health. Choose formulas that match your plant types—indoor houseplants may benefit from lighter blends, while outdoor gardens often need stronger nutrition.

Miracle-Gro is packaged as two 8‑oz bottles designed specifically for indoor containers, with a simple pump dosing system. Purived offers a larger 16‑oz bottle that dilutes to make up to 50 gallons, providing a more economical option for both indoor and outdoor use. While Miracle-Gro focuses on convenience, Purived emphasizes value and versatility across feeding methods.

Not necessarily; houseplants often thrive on moderate ratios such as 4‑3‑4 or 10‑10‑10, which promote balanced leaf growth without excessive nitrogen that can cause weak stems. Products like Schultz SPF45170 (10‑15‑10) are stronger and may be better suited for flowering or fruiting plants. Match the ratio to your plant’s growth stage and species for optimal results.

Seaweed extract adds natural hormones, micronutrients, and amino acids that accelerate root development and improve stress tolerance. Chelated iron, like the 6 % found in Gardenwise, stays soluble across a range of pH levels, preventing chlorosis and keeping foliage vibrant. These additives can give your plants an edge, especially in nutrient‑poor soils.

Shelf life determines how long the nutrients remain effective after opening; a two‑year shelf life, as claimed by Purived, offers flexibility for occasional use. Organic formulas like True Organic may have shorter lifespans due to natural ingredients, so store them in a cool, dark place. Checking expiration dates helps avoid waste and ensures consistent feeding performance.

Purived’s 16‑oz bottle makes up to 50 gallons, delivering a low cost per gallon compared to smaller bottles like Miracle‑Gro’s 8‑oz packs. Gardenwise’s 10‑10‑10 formula also offers good value with added seaweed and iron, but requires more frequent repurchasing. Calculate the total cost of the diluted solution to determine the most economical choice for your garden size.

Some formulas, such as the hydroponic‑specific fertilizer for AeroGarden, are optimized for water‑only media and may lack the buffering agents needed for soil. Multipurpose products like Purived and Schultz are labeled for both soil drench and hydroponic use, making them versatile options. Always verify the label to ensure compatibility with your growing method.

Start with the lowest recommended concentration—often a few pumps or teaspoons per gallon of water—and observe plant response. Indoor plants generally need less frequent feeding, typically every 2–4 weeks, compared to outdoor gardens. Adjust dosage based on leaf color and growth; yellowing or burnt tips often signal excess nutrients.