There are many different kinds of fertilizers for all different types of plants. In the vegetable garden, we recommend using a slow-release, balanced, organic fertilizer.
- Slow-release fertilizers are made to break down slowly over a long period of time (months) to release the nutrients in them bit by bit to the plants. This prevents plants from being burned by fertilizer and from causing water pollution when nutrients wash before they have been absorbed by it the plants.
- Balanced fertilizers have an even mix of nutrients to cover the general nutrient needs of many plants. Look on the fertilizer packaging for numbers that are all about the same (for example 4-4-4 or 5-6-5) to tell you that Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (N-P-K) are all about the same.
- Organic fertilizers are better for your soil health, and better for the environment. Look for the word organic on the package and a stamp from OMRI to know if you are using an organic fertilizer.
Whatever fertilizer you use, carefully follow the instructions on the package. Fertilizers are different and require different amounts and application methods.
