You are doing it wrong. Here’s what fertilizer to use on what houseplants

Houseplants have exploded in popularity over the last decade, but many people are unknowingly harming their leafy companions with well-intentioned—but misguided—fertilizer choices. Just because something is “natural” doesn’t mean it’s right for every plant. In fact, using the wrong type of fertilizer can lead to root rot, pest infestations, or nutrient imbalances that slowly kill your plant. And while you might feel like you’re giving your plants a little love, you could actually be stressing them out.

From coffee grounds to banana peels, there’s no shortage of DIY plant food options—but the key is knowing which plant actually benefits from which additive. Below is your detailed, no-nonsense guide to the most common natural fertilizers, what they do, and—most importantly—what plants to use them on and which to avoid.