Simply because plants and trees grown in the ground does not mean all soil is perfect for planting. Some plants need much more of one important component that the soil may not have. For instance if your soil is high in phosphorus, you will need a fertilizer that increases the nitrogen and potassium in order to decrease the phosphorus. Your local farm bureau agent can assist you on this aspect of fertilizing.

What your Soil Needs

All soil needs three common nutrients; nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Each of these nutrients are called upon for different types of growth. Nitrogen is for leaf and stem growth, phosphorus for fruits and root systems and potassium to help strengthen the plants. Fertilizers are sold as rated by each nutrient strength. A 20-20-20 blend of fertilizer means there is a mixture of 20% of each nutrient in the fertilizer. The remainder is food for the plants and grass. Once you find out what nutrients your lawn or garden needs, you can purchase the correct mixture of fertilizer to raise your levels.

Have your Soil Tested

It is important before doing any seeding or planting to have your soil tested. You can get a free test kit from your local farm bureau department or department of agriculture. These tests will tell you exactly what the readings are for the nutrients and how much of the nutrients you will need to promote growth. By testing your soil you can be assured that your soil in it its best condition for growing almost anything you want. If your local farm bureau does not have a test, contact you local department of agriculture. They will be able to test your soil for you.

Going Green with Fertilizer

If you have switched your home over to green to help save the environment, you may want to consider fertilizer that is organic and all natural. Since there are a number of fertilizers on the market, you can choose from organic, natural or chemical ones. It is not recommended using chemical fertilizers on vegetable gardens so you may want to check into an organ or natural one. These are fertilizers that have been made with natural and organic materials such as leaves, green plants and garden plants from a compost. They are a little more expensive but they yield the best results.

After your Garden Begins to Grow

Once you have initiated growth through the first round of fertilizer, you will most likely want to continue a regimen of it to continue to promote growth. You should take precautions not to use too much or your plants will suffer. For instance, too much nitrogen will make the plants put too much energy into growing leaves and stems and the roots and fruit will suffer. Too much potassium may allow bacteria to attach itself to your plants, especially in the spring when there is a lot of rain. If you use too much phosphorus, your stems will not be strong enough to uphold the growth of the fruit.