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Dry And Liquid Fertilizers
Because container plants
are watered more frequently than garden plants, and the water leaches
away the fertilizers, container plants need to be fed on a regular
basis throughout the growing season.
A good rule of thumb
for most plants, is to mix a balanced dry fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10)
into the soil under new plants when you put them into the container,
and use liquid fertilizer for any subsequent fertilizing.
Most liquid or water-soluble
fertilizers are from chemical sources, but some organic types are
made from fish by-products and seaweed. Liquid fertilizers dissolve
quickly in warm water and are used for foliar feeding and drenching
the soil around the plants.
A good strategy for fertilizing
is to buy a 20-20-20 combination (20% nitrogen, 20% phosphorus,
20% potassium) and use it at half strength (10-10-10) during the
early part of the season when the plant is growing roots, leaves,
and stems. At mid-season, you can switch to a 15-30-15 or even to
a 5-10-10, with more phosphorous and less nitrogen to encourage
flower and fruit production.
Much depends on the type
of plants being grown, and the needs of each particular plant. A
good full-service nursery or your nearby botanical garden employees
can advise you on what's best for your particular needs.
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