A garden soil on which something clever is to grow must be fertilized. Because if he still has enough nutrients at the beginning, this depot will empty over time. But when, with what and how much should be fertilized?

Compost is the best fertilizer for garden soil

analyze soil

Plants need not just one, but a combination of different nutrients. They have to find them in the ground in good time. Fertilizing ensures that the soil has enough of it. But what nutrients is the soil lacking? Unfortunately, you can't see that on earth.

You should therefore take soil samples every 2-3 years from soil areas that you cultivate intensively. They are sent to a laboratory that analyzes the composition. After a few days you will receive the results together with a fertilizer recommendation. You can also determine the pH of the soil in this way.

Consider plant needs

The nutrient requirements of different plant varieties differ qualitatively and quantitatively from each other. Obtain appropriate information in good time before planting. You should stick to the recommended amount of fertilizer. Some plants are more sensitive to over-fertilization than to a slight lack of nutrients.

tips

If your plants show yellow leaves, this symptom can also be an indication of wrong or insufficient fertilization.

Appropriate fertilizers

The No. 1 fertilizer in the home garden is probably the self-made compost. It evenly releases its nutrients into the soil. Other popular slow-release organic fertilizers include horn shavings ($39.99) and horse manure. The garden soil can be fertilized with plant manure in an ecologically compatible and free way. For example with the well-known nettle liquid manure.

Mineral fertilizers are also commercially available, which have an immediate effect. But their use should be done with care. They are particularly suitable when the floor is missing a very specific element and needs to be supplied quickly.

Plants sensitive to lime

Some plant species do not like large amounts of lime, e.g. B. Rhododendrons. They must therefore not be supplied with compost. They need a special fertilizer that makes the garden soil acidic.

Optimum time

  • Nutrients are needed at the time of growth
  • organic long-term fertilizers can be applied all year round
  • ideally before planting
  • during the growing season, some plants require additional fertilization
  • use mineral fertilizers only during the growth phase
  • In the event of deficiency symptoms, supply the missing nutrient promptly

autumn fertilization

You can improve your garden soil in autumn if you sow a green manure on the fallow area and then work it into the soil in late autumn.

Category:

Garden design