Landscape Maintenance - Nitrogen Fertilizer
About Nitrogen Fertilizers
Introduction
Nitrogen Fertilizer is a chemical fertilizer that provides plants with all the essential nutrients for healthy growth and vibrancy. Nitrogen fertilizer is the alternative to organic natural fertilizers. Nitrogen fertilizers are chemically manufactured to assist in the growth and longevity of plant life. When appropriately applied, nitrogen fertilizers will enhance plant growth, the biological activity of the soil all whilst reducing the risk of disease and soil erosion. NPK Balance
Chemical fertilizers contain three important nutrients that plants require, that is known as NPK which stands for the elements Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K). When purchasing your fertilizer, the NPK ratio should be printed on the label. Each element plays their own part in the fertilization of the plants:
- Nitrogen provides the synthesis of proteins in the plants and promotes healthy leaf growth.
- Phosphorus is also essential for the synthesis of proteins and also for root and seeding development, flowering and fruit production.
- Potassium fights against disease and increases plant strength. Potassium also controls the flow of water to the roots up to the leaves.
Plants use the elements at different stages of their growth cycle. Nitrogen is required at the seeding stages, and then during growth and flowering the plants will use more phosphorus and potassium than nitrogen.
Nitrogen Vs Organic
Nitrogen fertilizers and organic fertilizer serve the same purpose – to provide essential nutrients and assist in healthy growth. It is a personal choice whether to use a chemical fertilizer or a natural fertilizer. There are some advantages and disadvantages of both products, so depending on your requirements, the decision is yours. Here are some of the differences between the two:
- Organic fertilizer sometimes can not replace the elements that are consumed by the plants and therefore deplete.
- Nitrogen fertilizers are chemically manufactured so all necessary nutrients are provided, whereas organic fertilizers may have to be used in excess to provide the same.
- Nitrogen fertilizers if used in excess can burn plants, however organic fertilizers have a slow-release that will reduce the risk of burning
Both nitrogen and organic fertilizer will be helpful for your plants. There are also chemical fertilizer products which contain organic materials, so there is a balance between the two.
Application of Nitrogen Fertilizer
The application of nitrogen fertilizer to your plants, trees and lawns depends on the types of plants and lawn you have and how it is maintained. Different varieties of plants and lawns have a variance of growth speed so application of nitrogen fertilizer and water must reflect the growth process.
The type of soil will also effect the application of fertilizer needed to maintain a healthy consistency. It is recommended to test the soil first as this will give you an indication of how often and what rate to fertilize the soil.
Nitrogen levels in the fertilizer are also another factor to consider. The levels of nitrogen will determine whether the fertilizer is a slow-release or a fast release fertilizer. All this information should be printed on the labels so be sure to read the label carefully and choose the right product for your landscape.
