When fertilizing your plants, you must be aware of a few things. First, the best time to apply fertilizer is in the active growing stage. However, too much fertilizer can burn the young roots or the roots of older plants. To avoid this, use liquid fertilizer sparingly and apply it once or twice during the growing season.
Dolomite
Dolomite is an important ingredient in fertilizing your plants. This mineral can help raise the pH of the soil, making it better for your plants. Unlike other fertilizers, Dolomite won’t wash away before the plants can absorb the mineral. Dolomite can be applied to the soil two to three weeks before planting and as needed while growing.
It is best to add Dolomite to the top six inches of soil, but do not overdo it. Dolomite changes soil’s pH level, so only add the right amount. For instance, 10 pounds of Dolomite will raise the pH level by about five percent. In addition, the right amount will depend on the acidity of your soil.
Dolomite powder is safe for most vegetable crops and can be applied anytime during the growing season. However, it should be used with caution on potatoes, as they may react badly. However, when used correctly, Dolomite helps minimize scab infestation and increases the starch content of potato tubers.
Liquid Fertilizer
Whether you’re just starting with a garden or have grown plants for years, like how you fertilize your grass, you can use liquid fertilizer to feed your plants. Liquid fertilizer is diluted in water so you can apply it directly to your plants. Follow the instructions on the label for frequency and amount. However, you should avoid overfeeding plants. Too much fertilizer can lead to stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To avoid these problems, fertilize your plants only once or twice a week.
Liquid fertilizer is water-soluble, so it sinks quickly into the soil. However, it would be best to be very careful when applying it, as too much can burn the roots and leaves. In addition, avoid fertilizing on days with extreme heat or dryness.
Spring is the ideal time to fertilize your perennial flowers and plants. Fertilize them when the ground hasn’t frozen, and the last frost is still at least a week away. This will reduce the chances of frost killing the tender new growth. This is also an excellent time to start planting leafy greens.
Time-Release Granular Fertilizer
When choosing a fertilizer, the amount of nitrogen you need will greatly influence your decision. First, you should consider the amount of nitrogen in a pound. To calculate the amount of nitrogen per pound, multiply the fertilizer’s weight by the nitrogen percentage. Next, divide that number by the cost of the fertilizer. Depending on your growing medium, you may need a slow-release fertilizer or a controlled-release fertilizer. When choosing a fertilizer, you should also consider the season and lighting in your garden.
The benefits of granular fertilizer are many. Granular fertilizer is convenient and easy to apply. It helps your plants grow faster and is more convenient than liquid fertilizer. However, the downside is that it may take a couple of weeks before your plants see any noticeable results. This is because the molecules in granular fertilizer are not as mobile as those in liquid fertilizer.
Macronutrients
Your plants need a wide range of nutrients. While nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are essential, secondary macronutrients such as sulfur and calcium are also necessary for proper plant health. When your plants lack these nutrients, they will show signs of malnutrition. Proper fertilizer and soil adjustments can ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients. However, it is important to remember that too little or too much of any one nutrient can cause various adverse effects in your plants.
Macronutrients are the most widely used nutrients for plants. These are nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. Many fertilizers contain these elements in varying proportions. If you are confused about which nutrients are most important, look for the NPK symbol. This number signifies the balance of these three nutrients.
The amount of micronutrients your plants need varies depending on your soil type. If your soil is lacking in one of these elements, a soil test and soil building program can help you determine what is missing in your soil. You can also try using liquid kelp, glacial rock dust, or azomite to supplement your soil with micronutrients.
