Fertilizer Application Rates


Determining the appropriate amount of fertilizer is essential for ensuring healthy growth. Here is a simple approach to assess the need for fertilization:

  1. Conduct a Soil Test: The first step in determining fertilizer requirements is to conduct a comprehensive soil test. This test will provide detailed information about the nutrient content and pH level of your soil. You can typically obtain a soil testing kit from local agricultural extension offices or garden centers. The results will indicate which nutrients are deficient and need supplementation.

  2. Understand Plant Requirements: Different plants have varying nutrient needs. Research the specific nutritional requirements of the plants you are cultivating. For instance, leafy vegetables may require more nitrogen, while flowering and fruiting plants might benefit from additional phosphorus and potassium.

  3. Determine Area: Measure the size of the area you plan to fertilize. This will help in calculating the amount of fertilizer needed, ensuring you do not apply too much or too little. Fertilizer application rates are often given per square foot or per acre, so having an accurate measurement of your garden or field is essential.

  4. Select the Appropriate Fertilizer: Based on the soil test results and plant requirements, choose a fertilizer that meets the identified needs. Fertilizers are available in various formulations that emphasize particular nutrients. Organic options, like compost or manure, can also be considered.

  5. Follow Label Instructions: Carefully read and adhere to the instructions provided on the fertilizer packaging. These guidelines will indicate the recommended application rate and frequency. Over-fertilization can be detrimental, leading to nutrient runoff, plant damage, and environmental harm.

  6. Monitor Plant Health: After application, monitor your plants for signs of improvement or any adverse effects. Healthy growth, vibrant foliage, and increased yield are indicators of successful fertilization. Conversely, symptoms like leaf burn or stunted growth may suggest over-fertilization or an imbalance.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your plants receive optimal nutrients for healthy growth. Fertilization, when done correctly, is an invaluable tool in the gardener’s arsenal for cultivating healthy and thriving plants.

 

Applying Fertilizer

Standard fertilizer is a combination of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K). 

To calculate the pounds of nitrogen in a bag of fertilizer, multiply the bag's weight by the percent nitrogen (this is the first number in the N, P, K designation on the front of the bag). This will tell you the total pounds of nitrogen in the bag.

Then divide the pounds of nitrogen per bag by the area covered to get the pounds of nitrogen per square foot. Lastly, you can multiply by 1,000 to get the number of pounds per 1,000 ft² application rate.

You’ll notice that products labelled as a Starter Fertilizer are typically higher in Phosphorus (P) to aid in germination and root development. Maintenance Fertilizers are usually higher in Nitrogen (N), benefiting photosynthesis and promoting a lush, green appearance. 

 

Examples:

  1. A 50 lb bag of Starter Fertilizer with an analysis of 16-24-12 (N-P-K) covering 12,000 square feet.

To determine total P in the bag:

50 lbs. × (24 / 100) = 12 lbs

To determine rate per 1,000 ft²:

(12 lbs phosphorus in the bag / 12,000 ft² of coverage) x 1,000 ft² = 1 lbs. of phosphorus / 1,000 ft²

(12 ÷ 12,000) x 1,000 = 1 lbs phosphorus / 1,000 ft²

 

  1. A 50 lb bag of Maintenance Fertilizer with an analysis of 25-2-5 (N-P-K) covering 15,000 square feet.

To determine total N in the bag:

50 lbs. × (25 / 100) = 12.5 lbs

To determine rate per 1,000 ft²:

(12.5 lbs nitrogen in the bag / 15,000 ft² of coverage) x 1,000 ft² = 0.83 lbs. of nitrogen / 1,000 ft²

(12.5 ÷ 15,000) x 1,000 = 0.83 lbs nitrogen / 1,000 ft²

 

View our available fertilizers here.