OPE daily

What are you suppose to do with all of those numbers? And no, more is not always better.

Several factors play a role in plant and lawn survival such as nutrient amounts, soil type, pH, and nutrient availability. Most of these are provided naturally, but soil content varies from region to region, and fluctuates throughout the year. Thus, fertilizers are used to help maintain nutrient balance.

The three elements identified as essential to the health of plants are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These macronutrients are identified on each package of fertilizer based on their percentage by weight and are displayed as 6-4-4 where 12-8-8 would be double the concentration.

Now what?

Nitrogen is the most utilized of the three elements as it affects the growth and overall general health of plants. It is also favored for its ability to “green up” lawns. Nitrogen is used by plants for new shoot growth as well as bud and leaf development. While the air is comprised mostly (nearly 80%) of nitrogen, atmospheric nitrogen is not available to plants. It must be abosorbed through the soil. Nitrogen, especially from chemical fertilizer sources, seeps from the soil rapidly. I recommend using slow-release organic derived fertilizers available at most lawn and garden stores.

Typically a lack nitrogen can be seen in the yellowing or premature dropping of plant leaves and stagnated plant growth. However, too much nitrogen can encourage weak shoots due to rapid plant growth and dark green chlorophyll in plant leaves.

Phosphorus does most of its work below ground and during blooming. It is most impacted by soil pH. Even slight changes in soil acidity can make phosophorus unavailable to plants. Decomposing organic matter is the normal source of phosphorus in soil, and can be encouraged with proper mulching techniques.

Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency are dull green leaves and darkened stems. You may see a fewer blooms or a general unhealthy appearance to new growth.

Potassium is used for the general health of plants and is relatively asymptomatic. It is essential in the creation of chlorophyll and is also known to increase disease resistance.

Too little potassium usually results in sickly looking plants with smaller-than-normal fruits and flowers. Symptoms could also include fewer blooms and yellowing of older leaves.

Some people will swear by a particular fertilizer. The fact of the matter is that your plants will require different sources and different concentrations of N-P-K throughout the year. Pay attention to your plants and look for any symptoms that point to nutrient deficiency to know when to apply the fertilizer. Make proper fertilization a part of your lawn maintenance regimen and you can keep a beautiful landscape all year long.