Hello, plant parents and enthusiasts! Are you taking care of your plants properly? One essential factor in plant maintenance is fertilizer application. Fertilizers provide the essential nutrients that plants need for healthy growth. However, applying too little or too much fertilizer can damage your green babies. To guide you, here are some dos and don’ts for optimal plant growth.

💡 Dos:

Fertilizers vary in composition and amount of nutrients. Therefore, it is important to follow the instructions on the label. You can also consult gardening experts or conduct research to know the appropriate fertilizer application rate for your plants.

A label of a fertilizer bag

2. Apply fertilizer evenly.

When using granular fertilizers, spread them evenly on the soil surface, then mix it with the soil using a rake or a cultivator. This will prevent concentrated application, which can cause root burn or uneven plant growth.

A gardener evenly mixing fertilizer granules with soil using a rake

3. Water plants after applying fertilizers.

Watering your plants after fertilization helps distribute the nutrients to the plant roots. This will also prevent the accumulation of salt deposits, which can harm the plants.

A woman watering her plants with a watering can

4. Choose the right fertilizer type.

There are different kinds of fertilizers, such as organic and synthetic. Organic fertilizers are made from natural materials and can improve soil quality. Synthetic fertilizers, on the other hand, are chemically-produced and provide a quick nutrient boost. Determine the needs of your plants and choose the appropriate fertilizer type and nutrient composition.

A collage of different types of fertilizers

🚫 Don’ts:

1. Apply too frequently.

Over-fertilizing can burn plants, cause toxic buildup, and attract pests. Therefore, avoid fertilizing your plants too frequently and follow the recommended application rate.

A plant with yellow leaves, indicating over-fertilization

2. Apply during extreme temperatures.

Avoid applying fertilizers during extreme temperature conditions, such as hot and dry weather or cold and frosty weather. This can result in poor nutrient uptake and plant damage.

A thermometer with a red warning sign indicating extreme heat

3. Apply fertilizer to dry soil.

Fertilizers require moisture to be absorbed by the plants. Therefore, avoid applying fertilizer on dry soil, as it can cause nutrient runoff and ineffective nutrient uptake.

A dry and cracked soil surface

4. Apply fertilizers directly on plant leaves.

Fertilizers should be applied directly to the soil. Applying fertilizers to the plant leaves can result in leaf burn and damage.

A plant leaf with brown edges, indicating leaf burn due to fertilizer application

Now that you know the dos and don’ts in fertilizer application, you can ensure optimal plant growth and health. Remember, proper fertilization is just one aspect of plant care, so make sure to research and learn more about plant maintenance to keep your green babies thriving. Happy planting!

A beautiful garden with blooming flowers and lush greenery