Fertilizer, Mini-guide

I think a lot of people have questions about fertilizing, so here is a mini-guide that I have taken off the net that can probably help out. It only concerns N-P-K.

Main uses of the plant:

*Nitrogen promotes leaf growth. Use on hedges, grass, shade trees and other foliage plants. (10-5-5 or 20-10-10)

*Phosphorus promotes flowering; use a low nitrogen-high phosphorus fertilizer. (5-10-10 or 10-20-20) Use on perennials and flowering shrubs.

*Potassium promotes stronger stems and vivid colors. (5-10-10 or 10-20-20)

N-P-K Deficiencies Signs
Lack of:
Nitrogen -- Light green to yellow appearance of leaves, especially older leaves; stunted growth; poor fruit development.

Phosphorus -- Leaves may develop purple coloration; stunted plant growth and delay in plant development.

Potassium -- Older leaves turn yellow initially around margins and die; enlarged veins; irregular fruit development.

Hope this helps.

thanks man

That does help a lot. I am planning on growing soon when I move into a new place and I had a lot of questions about fertilizers even though I have read a lot. Also can you buy ferts at garden places that have more of each chemical in it like you need? I am not very good with that kind of stuff and I dont know much about fertilizers. Thanks for any additional info.

that sounds like good info,
I just got some fert at 15-20-15.
would that be suitable?

Mole;

That should be good for the flowering stage but I'd get one with a higher nitrogen ratio for the veg period. Perhaps a 20-10-10 or a 10-5-5. Good Luck!

Usually, if you plant is yellowing throughout, I would go with high nitrogen like 20-10-10 or 10-5-5 to be safe. But if all looks well, 10-20-20 is the standard in fertilizers. You can pick up some cheap, yet decent, ferts at k-mart or walmart, or any home and garden stores like Home Depot. When buying higher nitrogen ferts to darken up ur leaves, check out some of the ferts labeled grass fertilizer. They are usually hi nitrogen and are inexpensive. A lot of people like to buy hi nitrogen ferts, but honestly, if your leaves are nice and green 10-20-20 is excellent. Been using it on my family farm for decades. Farming is our family business.