Gardening is both an art and a science, involving knowledge of plant requirements as well as the skill to establish an ideal growth environment. Fertilisation is a critical component of this, as it gives plants the nutrients they require to develop, knowing the complexities of selecting the proper fertiliser may make all the difference in growing rich, colourful garden plants and flowers. When you think about it, a plant’s capacity to produce blossoms out of nothing but dirt, water, and sunlight is quite incredible. As flower gardeners, all we have to do is establish the most suitable conditions for our plants to do their magic. Plants in our gardens require access to a wide range of soil nutrients, in varied quantities and at different periods during the growth season. Even the greatest garden soil does not provide all of the nutrients that a blooming plant requires for optimal performance. So it is up to gardeners to narrow the gap. 

How to Choose a Fertiliser

Fertiliser labels frequently have three numbers that signify nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) values—written in this specific order. These three nutrients are critical for maintaining overall plant health. Some fertilizers may also include trace levels of micronutrients including magnesium, calcium, sulphur, iron, and boron. Nitrogen, in particular, is an essential component of chlorophyll, a chemical that contributes to plants’ vibrant green colour. Phosphorus, on the other hand, is an all-around plant superfood, providing energy while also promoting root, flower, and leaf growth. Finally, potassium improves plant metabolism by making them resistant to illnesses and drought. Not all front and backyards will react to the same type of fertiliser. It’s vital to note that each bag includes a distinct blend, which means they don’t address the same issues. A soil test is the most effective technique to determine which fertiliser is suitable for your specific soil. Begin by contacting your local cooperative extension office or an independent professional for assistance in systematically breaking down the soil in your yard or garden. They can determine crucial factors in its makeup, including pH, illness status, and overall health. Key Factors in Selecting the Right Fertiliser Find one that can cater to your soil’s pH level. For instance, if your lawn and garden soil isn’t acidic enough to grow your favourite plants, consider using an acidic blend to fill in the nutrient gaps. Choose a nutrient blend based on your needs. If your yard has brown grass, increasing the nitrogen content may help the green colour thrive. However, if your soil needs drought protection, raising the potassium content may be more useful, simply, different demands are met with different types of fertilisers suitable to your garden. Some plants prefer slow-release fertilisers or organic options, which distribute nutrients over time instead of a one-time drop.

Fertiliser Buying Guide

After assessing your soil’s structure, you may still have plenty of appropriate fertiliser alternatives. Fertilisers range from liquid to granular and organic. Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release Fertilisers Slow-release fertilisers offer nutrients gradually, whereas quick-release fertilisers do so instantly. You’ll have to make decisions based on your plant’s requirements. Types of Fertilisers Organic Fertilizers Organic fertilisers come from natural sources including compost, manure, and plant waste. They give slow-release nutrients, enrich the soil, and boost microbial activity. Perfect for organic farming. Inorganic Fertilizers Fertilisers, whether inorganic or synthetic, are created to release nutrients quickly. They are available in a variety of formulas, letting you select the one that best meets your plant’s needs. Granular organic fertilisers are a long-term investment in healthy soil. It takes time and a complex network of soil bacteria to progressively transform these organic chemicals into readily accessible plant nutrients. Organic fertilisers will progressively deliver nutrients over one or more crop seasons.  Granular synthetic fertilisers, on the other hand, are water soluble and begin releasing nutrients within weeks of application. This is a significant advantage when plants are hungry. However, synthetic fertilisers do not enhance soil fertility over time, nor do they nourish beneficial soil organisms. It’s also critical to carefully follow the application rates on the packaging, since too much fertiliser will harm your plants.

More Fertiliser Isn’t Necessarily Better

You don’t want your plants to go hungry, but you also don’t want to overfeed them. Too much nitrogen encourages plants to develop foliage rather than flowers. Excess phosphorus can make it harder for plants to absorb important micronutrients like iron and zinc. Too much potassium reduces their ability to absorb calcium. There is another issue with using too much fertiliser, particularly water-soluble fertilisers. Excess nutrients seep out of the soil and into streams, ponds, and groundwater, where they can harm ecosystems and contaminate drinking water. For the best outcomes, please adhere to the package directions for correct application rates and time.