Do you find the numbers on fertilizer products confusing? These numbers are vital to understanding how a specific fertilizer product will work in your situation. All plant life need certain nutrients to live and thrive. These nutrients are typically provided through the soil however, there are situations in which those important components are missing.
The three major nutrients that plants need to thrive are Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K). The three numbers found on fertilizer products correspond directly to these nutrients. For example, a fertilizer bag with the numbers 5-5-5 indicates the percentage by weight of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium in the product.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen is commonly recognized and is known for its capacity to increase the green coloring in lawns, impacting the growth and general health of plants. Nitrogen is the main component in chlorophyll which makes photosynthesis possible. Nitrogen is used on newly developed buds, leaves, and shoots. It can be applied through liquid fertilizer products, feather meal and blood meal. Plants lacking in nitrogen develop yellow leaves and the growth rate begins to slow down. Leaves may fall off the plant more quickly. Too much nitrogen causes plants to grow too fast, causing long, weak shoots and dark green leaves.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is vital for roots to be healthy. It is most often used when plants are in bloom. If the pH level in the soil is not well-balanced, the phosphorus becomes unavailable to the plant. This nutrient is created in the soil through the decomposition process of organic matter. Plants lacking in phosphorus have dull leaves and stems with a purple tinge to them. Lush foliage that does not bloom can also be an indicator of low phosphorus levels. It can be applied through bone meal, liquid fertilizers, and rock phosphate.
Potassium
Potassium, also referred to as potash, impact the general health of plant life and is vital to chlorophyll formation. It helps with disease prevention. A lack of potassium may be difficult to spot however plants with low levels of this nutrient are typically unwell and produce small fruit. Potassium can be found in palm bunch ash, sulfate of potash magnesia and liquid fertilizer products.
If your plants seem a little weak and are not as vibrant as they should be, consider a fertilizer product that can provide the nutrients needed to grow and thrive.
For more fertilizer tips from lawn care companies in Dallas, Tx contact Cgreens Landscape Management at 972-231-2870 today!
Cgreens Landscape Management | Lawn Care Companies Dallas Tx | 972-231-2870