The Basics of Fertilizers
for Your Lawn and Garden

It is essential to understand at least the basics of fertilzers before using them. Fertilizers can greatly enhance the growth and health of your plantings, but if used incorrectly, they can also spell disaster for your garden.

Normally, when you purchase a plant, the information stick will indicate what sort of fertilizer it will need. If there is no indication, be sure to ask your plant merchant. You don't want to use the wrong kind of fertilizer - it could damage your plant. Besides, you want the fertilizer that will be of the most benefit to your plant.

Reading the fertilizer label:

Fertilizer labels list three numbers separated by hyphens. Example: 5-5-5.

  • The first number is the percentage of nitrogen(N)
  • The second is phosphorus(P)
  • The third is potassium(K)

These are the three primary plant nutrients. And here is what they each do:

  • Nitrogen stimulates foliage formation and gives leaves their healthy green glow. Plants that lack nitrogen are yellow and stunted.
  • Phosphorus is important for flowering, fruiting and seed formation. It also plays a role in root growth.
  • Potassium helps in disease resistance . It is a key element in photosynthesis.

There are several other nutrients needed to grow healthy plants as well. These nutrients are required in smaller quantities but are equally important. If these nutrients are included in the fertilizer you are looking to purchase you will find them listed on the label.

Definition:

Balanced fertilizer: Provides equal parts of the three major nutrients, nitrogen(N), phosphorus (P), and potassium(K).

Types of fertilizer:

  • Dry fertilizer come as granules or powders. They are easy to apply to large areas. Dry fertilizer last longer that liquid fertilizers.
  • Liquid fertilizers are either powders that need to be dissolved in water, or they are liquid concentrates that need to be diluted with water. Liquid fertilizers will not last as long as dry fertilizers, so you will need to apply more often.

Important: Before applying any fertilizer to your plants follow the labels instructions.

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