How to choose the right fertiliser for your plants: an overview of available products and their dosage

In our ever-expanding world, caring for plants is increasingly important. And one of the key factors for healthy plant growth and beauty is proper fertilization. In this article, we'll introduce you to the different types of fertilizers, their advantages and disadvantages, and give you tips on how to choose the best one for your gardens and flowers.

Why is the right fertiliser important?

The importance of fertiliser for plant growth and development

• Fertilizers as building blocks for plants: plants need nutrients for growth, development, and fruit production.

• Plant nutrient needs: Plants require different types of nutrients, including macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and micronutrients (iron, zinc, manganese) for proper growth and development.

• Photosynthesis and its dependence on nutrients: Photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert solar energy into energy for growth, depends on an adequate supply of nutrients.

How poorly chosen fertilizer can harm plants

• Excess or deficiency of nutrients and their consequences: using an inappropriate fertiliser can cause an excess or deficiency of certain nutrients, which can lead to various problems such as chlorosis or oversalting.

• Soil salinization and root problems: Over-application of fertilizer can cause soil salinization, which damages plant roots and limits their ability to take up water and nutrients.

• Toxic effects of fertilizers on the environment: Excessive use of fertilizers can cause water pollution and negative impacts on surrounding ecosystems.

Types of fertilizers

Organic vs. inorganic fertilizers

• Organic fertilizers are made from natural materials such as compost, manure, or bone meal. They contain organic matter that gradually releases nutrients into the soil. Organic fertilisers improve the structure of the soil and increase its ability to hold water.

• Inorganic (mineral) fertilizers are synthetically produced and contain nutrients in a form that plants can use quickly. They are usually richer in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium than organic fertilisers.

Liquid, granular or powdered forms of fertilizers

• Liquid fertilisers are dissolved in water and are easily applied by spraying or watering. They are quickly available to plants, which can lead to rapid growth.

• Granular fertilisers are in the form of pellets that break down evenly in the soil. They are suitable for long-term fertilisation and have a slower release of nutrients.

• Powdered fertilisers are usually mixed with the soil or applied to the soil surface. They are suitable for immediate nutrient supply to plants.

When and how to fertilise

Plant growth stage and nutrients needed

• Initial growth phase (vegetative phase). The important nutrients are nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Nitrogen promotes green leaf formation and general growth. Phosphorus is necessary for root formation and energy for the growing plant.

• Flowering and fruiting stage: In this stage, plants move on to flower and fruit production. The key nutrients here are potassium (K) and phosphorus (P). Potassium promotes flowering and fruit development. Phosphorus still plays an important role in energy and root development.

Fertilisation frequency and timing

• Fertilization frequency: How often to fertilize depends on several factors, including the type of plant, soil type, and type of fertilizer. Some plants, such as vegetables, may require more frequent fertilization, while trees and shrubs may need less frequent applications.

• Timing of fertilization: Proper timing of fertilization is crucial for optimal nutrient utilization. Fertilizer applied before rain or watering will help nutrients reach the plant roots where they are needed. Evening application of fertilizer can reduce the risk of sunburn to plants.

• Split fertilisation: Fertilisation is often split into several stages, including fertilisation at planting, spring fertilisation, fertilisation during the growing season and any autumn fertilisation. Each of these stages has a purpose and helps to ensure that the plant receives the nutrients it needs at the right time.

Overview of available fertilisers

Unique needs of hemp: Hemp is a plant with unique nutrient needs. It is important to have special fertilizers that reflect this. For example, hemp requires higher levels of nitrogen during the vegetative growth phase and higher levels of phosphorus and potassium during the flowering period.

NPK ratio: Hemp can have different needs in NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) elements depending on the growth phase. Fertilisers designed for cannabis often contain a specific ratio of these elements for optimal growth.

Micronutrients: Hemp also needs certain micronutrients such as magnesium, iron, manganese and others. Special fertilisers for cannabis usually include these micronutrients in optimal doses.

Organic vs. inorganic fertilizers: Cannabis plants can respond well to organic fertilizers that provide a long-release form of nutrients. On the other hand, inorganic fertilizers are also used with success.

Fertilisers for hydroponics and in-ground cultivation: Depending on the cultivation method, such as in-ground cultivation or hydroponic systems, fertilisation needs may vary. Special fertilizers are available for both methods.

pH level: Cannabis prefers a certain soil pH level, which can affect nutrient uptake. Some cannabis fertilizers are designed to help maintain the correct pH level.

Fertilisers for outdoor vs. indoor cultivation: Growing conditions such as sunlight, humidity and temperature differ between outdoor and indoor cultivation. Special fertilizers can be designed to meet the needs of plants in these different environments.

How to choose the right fertilizer

Soil analysis and plant needs

• The most important first step is to conduct a soil analysis. This analysis will determine soil pH, nutrient content and other important factors. Based on this information, you can determine what nutrients your plants need.

• Each type of plant has specific nutrient requirements. Some plants may require more nitrogen for leaf growth, while others need more phosphorus for flowering. A thorough knowledge of the needs of specific plants will help you choose the right fertilizer.

Fertiliser dosage - how to calculate the amount needed

• Dosing fertiliser is important so that you do not over-fertilise your plants and cause them harm. The recommended dosage is usually indicated on the fertiliser packaging, but this can be general. It is better to dose based on the specific needs of your plants.

• The dose calculation depends on the nutrient content of the fertiliser and the area you will be fertilising. You need to determine how much nutrient you want to apply to the area and what concentration of fertilizer you need.

Hints and tips for choosing the ideal fertiliser

• Plants and growth stage: Consider the type of plant and its growth stage. Plants may have different needs during vegetative growth and flowering.

• Soil type: Find out if you have acidic or alkaline soil, as this will affect the availability of nutrients for the plants.

• Fertilizer quality: Choose a quality fertilizer from a reliable manufacturer. Cheap fertilizers may contain undesirable additives.

• Organic vs. inorganic: Decide whether you prefer organic or inorganic fertilizers. Organics are usually more environmentally friendly , while inorganics are more concentrated.

Fertilizer application

Different application methods

• Watering: One of the most common methods of fertiliser application is simple watering. The fertiliser is dissolved in water and the plants are watered with this mixture. This method is suitable for many plant species.

• Spraying: Some fertilizers can be applied by spraying on the leaves of the plants . This method allows the plants to absorb the nutrients more quickly through the leaves. This is useful for plants that are deficient in certain nutrients.

• Fertiliser sticks: These sticks are inserted directly into the soil near the roots of the plants. They gradually break down and release nutrients directly where they are needed.

Fertilizer handling precautions

• Gloves: It is important to wear suitable gloves when handling fertilisers. Some fertilizers can be irritating to the skin and can be toxic.

• Eye protection: Make sure your eyes are protected. This is important because many fertilizers can cause eye irritation.

• Respiratory protection: if you are working with powdered or granular fertilizers, you should use respiratory protection to prevent inhaling dust.

• Storage rules: Fertilisers should be stored in a safe environment, out of reach of children and animals. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.

• Cleaning: Wash your hands thoroughly after handling fertilizers.

Clean hands thoroughly before handling fertilizers.

Environmental impact of fertilisation

• Wastewater: When using traditional fertilisers, nutrients can leak into wastewater and cause eutrophication of aquatic ecosystems. This can lead to excessive algae growth and reduced water quality.

• Soil: Excessive use of fertilizers can lead to soil pollution and reduced soil fertility. This can have long-term negative impacts on agricultural ecosystems.

• Greenhouse gas emissions: The production and distribution of traditional fertilisers can involve greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change.

Alternatives to traditional fertilizers

• Organic fertilizers: Organic fertilizers are more environmentally friendly because they are often made from natural materials such as compost, manure or seaweed. These fertilisers help improve soil structure and are less prone to build up excess nutrients.

• Green manuring: This method involves growing plants that are later fertilised into the soil to improve its quality. Green manuring can reduce the need for traditional fertilization.

• Biological fertilizer: Biological fertilizers contain beneficial microorganisms that help break down organic material and release nutrients for plants.

Try growing hemp for yourself! Get cannabis seeds suitable for both outdoor and indoor cultivation with up to 1% THC and get started!