Understanding organic fertilisers A beginner's guide to the basics

1. Understanding organic fertilisers: A beginner's guide to the basics Organic fertilisers contain nutrients and are not "plant foods". Nutrients are absorbed directly through the roots of the plant and in some cases also through the leaves. Plants use nutrients to make carbohydrates, proteins, antibodies, and other compounds. ● Lawns, gardens, and landscape plants should be fertilised according to soil test results and UME recommendations. It depends on plant type, soil type, time of year, and other factors. ● Get basic information about soil levels of important nutrients, organic matter, and pH by sending soil samples to testing laboratories for analysis and recommendations. Do this every 3-4 years, depending on the situation. ● If soil test results are unavailable, follow the fertiliser label's directions. Nutrients in synthetic and organic fertilisers are in the form of salts. When large amounts of fertiliser are left in direct contact with plant roots and other plant parts, some injury symptoms may be seen. This "burn" is known as phytotoxicity. ● Do not fertilise drought-stressed plants. ● A water-based fertiliser for lawns, garden plants, and landscaping plants that dissolves, makes nutrients available to plants and prevents root scorching. Fertilising in late summer and early fall can prevent plants from overwintering and slow the growth of succulents that easily die in winter. ● Fertilisers (synthetic or organic) will not reverse plant problems caused by pests, disease, weather, or poor site conditions. If possible, mix fertiliser into the top few inches of soil. ● Phosphorus-rich "starter" fertilisers (with the highest intermediate numbers) are widely available, but research studies on containerized seedlings do not support their use. need. If a soil test shows low phosphorus levels, the lab will recommend a phosphate fertiliser. ● If the soil test report indicates low boron levels, dissolve 1 tablespoon of borax in 1 gallon of water and apply the solution evenly over 100 square feet from a spray can. As soil organic matter content increases, the amount of fertiliser needed decreases.