Backyard Garden Grower
Plan, grow, work, watch, and eat
Fertilizing
Buying fertilizer is based upon a few important considerations, but perhaps none are so prominently advertised as the N-P-K ratio. Often you will find on fertilizers a set of three numbers, for example 5-1-1. These represent the N-P-K. This is an acronym that stands for nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (recall on the periodic table that K stands for potassium, due to it being derived from the Latin term "kalium.") These three elements play a large role in the healthy development of plants. Each of these elements provides the necessary building blocks to build cell membranes, enzymes, and play major roles in cell signaling. While a plant requires much more than just three elements, these elements will be most identified in a fertilizer.
There are several more important minerals needed for plants to thrive. However, most of these will not be displayed on a label on fertilizers. A very good choice is to use a natural fertilizer, such a fish emulsion, which will also add micronutrients with use.
Knowing when to fertilize can be a tough ordeal for any beginner gardner. It should be noted that you can overfertilize. Following the directions on the particular fertilizer you purchased is the best course of action. Do not fall into the trap that more is better, as you just end up killing your plants.