What is fertiliser?
Fertiliser is a substance that you add to soil or plants to supply essential nutrients. These nutrients help plants grow strong, healthy, and productive. Think of this mixture as plant food. Just like we need different nutrients to stay healthy, plants also need a variety of nutrients to thrive.
Types of fertiliser
There are several types of plant food, each with its own benefits. The main categories include:
1. Organic fertiliser
Organic plant food comes from natural sources, such as animal manure, compost, or plant material. It’s often made from things like chicken manure, seaweed, or bone meal. Organic mixture improve soil health and structure over time. They release nutrients slowly and help maintain a balanced ecosystem in your garden.
Benefits
– Improves soil texture and water-holding capacity.
– Encourages beneficial microorganisms in the soil.
– Less likely to cause nutrient imbalances or burn plants.
Cons
– Can be slower to show results compared to synthetic fertilisers.
– May need to be applied more frequently.
2. Synthetic mixture
Synthetic or chemical plant food are manufactured in factories and contain concentrated nutrients. They come in various forms, such as granules, powders, or liquids. Synthetic mizxures often provide a quick boost of nutrients to plants.
Benefits
– Provides fast results with a specific nutrient ratio.
– Easy to apply and measure.
Cons
– Can lead to nutrient imbalances if not used correctly.
– May not improve soil health in the long term.
3. Slow-release fertiliser
Slow-release mixture gradually release nutrients over a period of time. They are often coated granules or prills that dissolve slowly. This type of mixture is designed to provide a steady supply of nutrients.
Benefits
– Reduces the need for frequent applications.
– Helps prevent nutrient leaching.
Cons
– Can be more expensive than other types of mixtures.
– May take longer to see results.
4. Liquid fertiliser
Liquid mixtures are dissolved in water and applied directly to the soil or plants. They are often used for quick nutrient uptake.
Benefits
– Provides immediate nutrients to plants.
– Can be used for foliar feeding (applying mixture directly to plant leaves).
Cons
– Requires more frequent application.
– Can be less convenient than granular forms.
Key nutrients in fertiliser
Mixtures provide three main nutrients that plants need:
Nitrogen (N)
Nitrogen is key for plant growth and leaf development. It helps plants produce chlorophyll, the green pigment that allows them to photosynthesise and make food. Plants that lack nitrogen may have yellowing leaves and poor growth.
Sources: Blood meal, fish emulsion, and ammonium nitrate.
Phosphorus (P)
Phosphorus supports root development, flower and fruit production, and overall plant energy. It helps plants store and transfer energy, which is crucial for strong roots and blooms. Plants deficient in phosphorus may have stunted growth and poor flowering.
Sources: Bone meal, rock phosphate, and superphosphate.
Potassium (K)
Potassium is important for overall plant health. It helps regulate water uptake, enzyme activation, and disease resistance. Potassium deficiency can cause weak stems, poor fruit quality, and increased susceptibility to diseases.
Sources: Potash, wood ash, and potassium chloride.
How it works
This mixture works by supplying plants with essential nutrients that may be lacking in the soil. When you apply fertiliser, it mixes with the soil and becomes available for plant roots to absorb. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:
You apply fertiliser to the soil or directly to the plants. For granular mixtures, you sprinkle the granules on the soil and work them in gently. For liquid fertilisers, you mix the concentrate with water and apply it either to the soil or as a foliar feed.
Once in the soil, nutrients dissolve in water and are absorbed by plant roots. The roots take up these nutrients and use them to grow and develop.
Plants use the nutrients to build proteins, enzymes, and other essential compounds. Nitrogen helps with leaf growth, phosphorus supports root and flower development, and potassium strengthens overall plant health.
How to use it effectively
Using mixture correctly is key to getting the best results. So it’s important to always follow the instructions on the fertiliser package. Over-applying fertiliser can harm plants and lead to nutrient imbalances. Test your soil to understand its nutrient levels and pH. This will help you choose the right fertiliser and avoid adding unnecessary nutrients.
Fertilise at the right stage of plant growth. For example, apply fertiliser before planting to improve soil fertility or during the growing season to support plant development. Water the soil after applying fertiliser to help it dissolve and move into the root zone. This also prevents the mixture from sitting on the surface and potentially burning the plants.
More fertiliser doesn’t always mean better results. Over-fertilising can damage plants and leach nutrients into the environment. Stick to recommended amounts and avoid frequent applications.
Understanding the basics of nutrient mixtures can help you make better choices for your garden. By knowing the types of fertiliser, key nutrients, and how to use them effectively, you can provide your plants with the support they need to grow strong and healthy. Whether you choose organic or synthetic fertilisers, remember to apply them correctly and monitor your plants’ response. With the right fertiliser and care, you’ll enjoy a thriving garden and beautiful blooms.