Let’s Break it Down: Types of Fertilizer
In the gardening world, there’s a lot of talk about using fertilizer. While it’s widely known that fertilizer is important, many people feel lost when it’s time to fertilize trees. There are many different types of fertilizer (both organic and inorganic), so it can definitely be a confusing and overwhelming topic, as there are many different ways to categorize fertilizer. In this blog, we hope to eliminate some of the confusion by breaking down the most common types.
The main reason that people fertilize trees is to improve the health of the tree. This helps it to fight off pests, diseases, and environmental stressors. The best types of fertilizer mimic a tree’s natural environment, as soil in forest habitats is very nutrient dense. Regardless of what type of fertilizer you buy, you should therefore look for the big three macronutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K). Otherwise known as NPK on the fertilizer bags or bottles.
The main reason that people fertilize trees is to improve the health of the tree. This helps it to fight off pests, diseases, and environmental stressors. The best types of fertilizer mimic a tree’s natural environment, as soil in forest habitats is very nutrient dense. Regardless of what type of fertilizer you buy, you should therefore look for the big three macronutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K). Otherwise known as NPK on the fertilizer bags or bottles.
Liquid fertilizer:
Perhaps the most commonly known method of fertilizing, liquids are enjoyed for their ease of blending, ease of handling, and ease of application. Liquids also have an advantage when it comes to the uniformity of application. One disadvantage to this type of fertilizer is that it is not slow release, so it must be continuously applied throughout the year.
Granular fertilizer:
Cheaper in bulk and easier to store, granular fertilizer often looks like small pellets. Some formulas are available in slow release (which is our favorite); this controlled method of fertilizing is the best type to fertilize trees. Here at My Perfect Plants, we offer Bulk 360 Day Slow Release Fertilizer. It contains NPK, magnesium and micronutrients in a controlled release prill. You only need to apply this product once every 12 months, which is great as it minimizes your work and provides your plant with 1 years worth of ideal nutrients.
Click here to check out our specially formulated bonsai fertilizer
Special-purpose fertilizer:
Formulated to target specific soil deficiencies, these types of fertilizers are prepared for various varieties of plants. For example, we offer Bonsai Fertilizer Pellets. The reason for this special formulation is because Earth-grown trees and shrubs typically have sources of nourishment plus space for their roots to grow. Bonsai Trees, however, are kept in a limited container with little resources for supplementation — this is why a high-quality fertilizer is best. Perfect Plants Bonsai Fertilizer is of the highest quality in slow-release fertilizers on the market — our pellets help release nutrients to the soil immediately after application. We also offer specific fertilizer formulas for orchids, fiddle leaf fig trees, succulents, and palm trees.Fertilizer with insecticide:
Make sure you read the ingredients closely when you purchase fertilizer. Some blends are mixed with insecticide to help increase the resistance to pests.
Compost is a great addition to your plants, gardens, and landscapes. Helps reduce waste and provides the best nutrients possible!
Organic Fertilizers:
If you’re interested in sticking to organic fertilizers, you’ve got a whole range to choose from. Common examples include cow manure, cornmeal, and compost. For a full overview of different types of organic fertilizers, check out this list from Gardening Channel.Do you need some help with caring for your plants or finding the right fertilizer? We’d love to help. Our expert staff will happily assist you in all of your landscaping needs.