The term soil fertility is used to describe how rich the soil is with key nutrients. There are many elements that make-up healthy soil. But here are three major nutrients vital for plant growth. They include nitrogen (N), phosphorous (p), and potassium (K).
Nitrogen(N)
One of nitrogen?s (N) roles is that of preserving the green color in plants. It also is responsible for healthy leaf development and strong Stems
The affect on a plant after an application are fast acting and noticeable. By comparison it is probably similar to a person eating a candy bar or sweet desert, then experiencing a sugar rush. You should not have to wait more than a week to see the leaves ?greening-up? and new stem growth develop.
During the fall and especially in winter, nitrogen should not be used much at all. Why? Because you don?t want to trigger new growth when the normal growth cycle is winding down.
This would lead to new growth dying off during a cold spell. Spring is the best time of year to use nitrogen on outdoor plants.
This is when a plants biological clock signals for new growth. Warmer temperatures activate soil bacteria, improve soil fertility, and makes nitrogen more readily available to plants.
Phosphorus(P)
Phosphorus is an essential nutrient relied on for general growth, overall health and the capacity to resist disease. It is especially important to root development and strength.
Having enough phosphorus in the soil will be very beneficial to new plants and cuttings being placed into the ground. Without phosphorus seed and fruit production is compromised. This fertilizer can be used during the fall.
Just be sure to follow the packaging direction since excessive phosphorous can drain the trace elements zinc and iron from the soil.
Potassium (K)
In professional gardening circles potassium is know as the regulator. It got this name because it plays a part in over sixty separate enzyme roles.
These include Plant Growth, reproduction, and resistance to drought and extreme climate change.
With potassium your crops build up a resistance to unwanted disease. It also opens and closes the pores of a plant. These pores are responsible for the efficient use and metabolism of water.
Many other nutrients make up good soil fertility. But without the three key elements mentioned here? you will be fighting a losing battle.
Adding good Compost and other organic matter can improve soil. To determine if your soil fertility is of good quality you can buy kits that test for these nutrients. Or you can have a professional test the soil for you.
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