The series of three numbers, known as NPK Analysis, you see on organic fertilizer bags or containers represents the amount of each material contained in the product.
Nitrogen (N)
Plants need an available source of nitrogen in the soil for supporting photosynthesis (make their own food by converting light energy into chemical energy) and protein production, or simply, to support cell growth. Blood meal, fish meal and alfalfa meal are excellent examples and liquid fish fertilizer can be applied to your plants if they show signs of deficiency during the growing season. Beware, though, too much nitrogen produces lush growth at the expense of fruiting or rooting.
Phosphorus (P)
When you think about your plants' need for phosphorus, think 'fruiting and rooting.' Phosphorus enables a plant to store and transfer energy, promotes root, flower and fruit development, and allows early maturity. Bone meal is an excellent source of phosphorous. Rock phosphate, an excellent source as well, releases phosphorous at a slower rate and needs a somewhat acidic soil (5 to 6.5) to assist in the take-up by the plant. Phosphorous-deficient plants appear stunted and have less fruit.
Potassium (K)
Potassium is important for increasing a plant's resistance to disease and for stimulating rooting activity, photosynthesis, chlorophyll production and aids in the quality of fruit produced. Wood ash, high in potash/potassium, can be spread on the soil surface in a light covering, usually in autumn or spring. Greensand and langbeinite are other fine sources of potassium.
The above information is just a teaser...come learn about organic fertilizers from one of the best!
Guest Speaker: Dave Murphy
Where: Powell River Garden Club Meeting,
Cranberry Seniors Centre, 6792 Cranberry Street
When: Tuesday, January 22nd, 2013 (Meeting begins at 7:15pm)
No comments:
Post a Comment
When you visit let us know by leaving a comment. If you have a gmail account you can comment using the google designation in the "comment as" box. If not you will need to scroll down in the "comment as" box until you reach anonymous at the bottom. Click on it as your choice. Write your comment, add your first name or initials and hit the PUBLISH button.