What fertilizers to use in the garden — what you need to know

Proper use of fertilizers in household plots helps to obtain a stable and environmentally friendly harvest. However, a conscious approach to the selection of fertilizers is important in this matter. About which fertilizers to use in the garden, with what frequency, which of them are harmful and which are really useful, read the Izvestia material.

What are fertilizers?

Various types of mineral fertilizers are available on the market, which are used taking into account the needs of specific plants and their stage of development. Top dressing is divided into three types: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Nitrogen fertilizers promote active plant growth. These include urea and ammonium nitrate.

Phosphorous fertilizers, such as superphosphate, phosphorous flour, improve the development of the root system and accelerate the ripening of fruits.

Potash fertilizers increase plant resistance to diseases and adverse conditions. Such fertilizers include potassium salt, potassium sulfate, and wood ash.

Fertilizer tasks: when and what plants need

Specific needs correspond to each stage of plant growth. Nitrogen is needed at the stage of active growth, phosphorus is needed during the formation of the root system and ovary, and potassium is needed for fruit ripening and disease resistance. Therefore, fertilizers for garden crops should be selected not based on the principle of universality, but based on specific tasks.

In spring, before planting, nitrogen fertilizers are applied — urea, ammonium nitrate, infusion of bird droppings or nettles. This allows plants to quickly build up a green mass. For root crops, on the contrary, nitrogen should be strictly dosed, otherwise the root part will remain underdeveloped.

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In summer, potassium and phosphorus should be added to the soil — the most important elements for flowering, fruiting and ripening of the crop. Potash fertilizers for tomatoes, peppers and potatoes are especially relevant in June and July. Phosphorus helps to form a healthy root system, which is critical for all fruit and melon crops.

In autumn, after harvesting, it is necessary to restore soil fertility. Complex mineral fertilizers with trace elements, siderates, as well as ash and humus, classic organic fertilizers for restoring balance, are relevant here.

Which fertilizers are harmful and which are safe

Harmful fertilizers are primarily preparations containing chlorine (for example, potassium chloride), as well as cheap, non—certified compounds that can accumulate in plants and cause soil contamination.

Safe fertilizers are those that have passed state registration and have a confirmed composition. These include humates, bioactive compost, siderates, and certified complex mineral mixtures. In addition, modern farmers are increasingly using natural fertilizers for the garden, which are compatible with the norms of organic farming. For example, nettle infusion is an effective nitrogen fertilizer. Wood ash contains potassium and calcium and is ideal for alkaline soils. The solution of iodine and serum not only nourishes plants, but also prevents fungal diseases.

Organic matter (manure, humus, compost) improves the soil structure. Yeast-based top dressing stimulates root formation. And eggshells, ground into powder, slowly release calcium, strengthening stems and leaves. The use of such fertilizers in the garden is not only safe, but also significantly saves the budget.

However, it is important to remember that the use of high-quality, proven organic and mineral fertilizers should be balanced. Abuse of even "natural" substances can lead to acidification of the soil and accumulation of nitrates in vegetables.

How often do I need to feed the plants?

The frequency of top dressing depends on the crop and the stage of vegetation. Cabbage, tomatoes and eggplant require nutrition 3-4 times per season. Cucumbers can be fed every 10-14 days, especially during the fruiting phase. Root crops are usually fed once, during the active growth phase.

It is important to observe the dosage. Excessive fertilization leads to "greasing" — the active growth of greenery to the detriment of the crop. Regular application according to the scheme, with alternating root and foliar top dressing, gives maximum results without harm to plants and soil.

To work effectively with fertilizers, it is necessary to adhere to a clear plan. At the first stage, it is advisable to conduct a soil analysis. This can be done in an agricultural laboratory or using test kits.

Based on its results, a scheme for applying fertilizers to crops is being developed. Then certified fertilizers are selected that are suitable in composition.

During the growing season, it is important to monitor the reaction of plants and, if necessary, adjust the top dressing. Before each top dressing, the soil must be moistened to reduce the risk of root burns.

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