The Best Fertilizer for Flower & Vegetable Gardens

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     Gardeners making an investment of time and money into flower or vegetable gardening want to ensure their garden's success. Fertilizer provides nutrients the plants need for vigorous growth. The first step is to analyze the soil to determine the pH level and fertility requirements. Then gardeners must consider the individual nutritional needs of each plant. The best fertilizers are chosen based on a soil test and the needs of the plants.

   Granular Fertilizer

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     Once gardeners test and determine the pH level and fertility needs of the garden soil, they can plan the steps required to apply fertilizer throughout the growing season. If a soil test report returns advising "no basic application," botanists with the University of Missouri recommend skipping the first step of applying a maintenance fertilizer. However, if the report shows nutritional deficits in the soil, gardeners should apply a maintenance fertilizer before planting. This fertilizer application will replace missing nutrients and prepare the soil for new growth. A maintenance fertilizer is a granular mix that is often labeled with numbers such as 5-10-5, 12-12-12 or 6-24-24. The first number represents the nitrogen level, the second number is for phosphorus and the third number shows the potassium level. Choose a granular fertilizer based on the needs of the soil. For example, if the soil test showed a lack of potassium, then choose a mixed fertilizer with a higher third number, which represents potassium. Following the directions on the label of fertilizer, distribute the recommended application into the top 7 inches of soil. Using a spade, dig deeply and apply one-half the application. Then scatter the remaining one-half of the fertilizer on the top soil, and rake it in to mix evenly.

   Water Soluble Fertilizer

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     After gardeners apply an application of granular fertilizer to the soil before planting, horticulturists with the University of Missouri advise adding a water-soluble fertilizer when transplanting seedlings. Normally, the condensed liquid fertilizer mixes with water at a rate of two tablespoons to one gallon of water. However, it is best to follow the specific directions on the fertilizer. Transplants require a high level of phosphorus to get established. The best fertilizers to use when planting new flowers or vegetable plants are those labeled as 10-52-17, 8-32-16, 12-24-12, 15-30-15 and 13-26-13. These liquid mixes are all high in phosphorus in comparison to nitrogen and potassium. Place 1 cup of the mixed fertilizer and water into the soil as you plant the seedling.

   Organic Matter

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     Organic matter is a rich source of nutrients and conditions soils that are too sandy or clay heavy. On farms, gardeners frequently use animal manure for organic enrichment. However, most homeowners dislike the smell and opt for peatmoss or compost. Coarse types of peatmoss excel at soil conditioning and supply plant nutrition. Peatmoss is readily available in home garden centers. In addition, mature compost provides organic material. Compost is created from grass clipping, leaves, kitchen waste and plant refuse. Gardeners work organic matter into the top 2 inches of soil around plants each growing season. In addition, compost can serve as a mulch to deter weeds.

Posted in: Flower Basics