Garden centers carry an array of fertilizers for vegetables, making it difficult to find one best suited to your needs without first conducting a soil test. An easy solution would be Osmocote’s nutrient-packed feed which comes packaged in an easy resealable bag with an integrated measuring scoop for precise application.
Organic
Fertilizer is essential to the health and vitality of a vegetable garden. Without sufficient nutrition, plants cannot form strong fruit and vegetables. Vegetables are heavy feeders who quickly deplete nutrients in their environment – therefore needing regular feedings with quality fertilizer to continue growing strong roots and foliage.
Organic garden fertilizers are made up of processed plant matter that has been broken down to allow its roots to easily absorb nutrients from it. Common organic vegetable garden fertilizers include compost, well-rotted manure, wood ash and seaweed – with compost being the most effective organic addition for long-term benefit; well-rotted manure must also be well-rotted before applying as this could damage plants or introduce diseases into the soil.
Organic fertilizers offer all of the elements essential for growing healthy vegetable crops while being safe for both people and the environment. When used according to instructions, organic vegetable garden fertilizers tend to have lower salt concentrations and water pollution risks than their non-organic counterparts.
Most vegetables require a fertilizer with adequate levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). The type of vegetable grown also plays a part; some require more or less than others of certain nutrients. Aiming for balance may be best, although an in-depth soil test is often necessary to accurately ascertain exact amounts needed.
Organic vegetable garden fertilizers come in both granular and liquid varieties; with the former usually being applied directly to the soil. Liquid varieties can be diluted before being sprayed onto leaves of plants for quick and easy application.
Granular organic fertilizers like Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed are ideal for most vegetable crops as general-purpose solutions with high N-P-K ratios that can be applied throughout the growing season. Another fantastic choice is Dr. Earth Bulb Food, specifically tailored for tuber and root vegetables as well as flowering bulbs such as tulips with very high phosphorus levels that foster strong early growth while still offering adequate nitrogen amounts to support vigorous plant development. Both options can be found online.