Tips On Fertilizing Your Garden

Gardens require proper care and maintenance if you are going to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Weeding and fertilizing is important for luscious plant growth, proper nutrients, and the health of the plants.

Fertilizing can be done using either synthetic or organic fertilizers. Depending on your preference, these fertilizers are needed for the health of the plants. More and more people seem to be applying natural or organic fertilizers. There are many to choose from including bone meal, blood meal, cottonseed meal which is high in nitrogen, fish emulsion which is high in nitrogen, trace minerals, and phosphorous, and greensand which is rich in potassium.

These are all good sources of organic fertilizers. The fact that they are organic methods of fertilizing does not mean that too much will not harm your plants. You must know the proper amount to apply to the plants, or you can burn them or kill them. The three most important nutrients needed for proper plant growth are phosphorous, nitrogen, and potassium.

Make sure when selecting a commercial or synthetic fertilizer, that it is a slow release formula. Proper amounts need to be applied whether you are using organic or commercial grade fertilizers. If you are unsure about this, talk to your local nursery or garden supply center, or consult the directions given with the product. It is always better to have less than to over fertilize and burn up your plants. You need to apply fertilizer before budding or flowering starts. You may need to have your soil tested if you are unsure of the PH in your soil.