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The nutrients a plant requires for growth are, nitrogen, phosphorus and potash (NPK), supported by a range of trace nutrients.
The first three nutrients are required in large amounts but the ratio can vary a lot from crop to crop.
For example; brassicas such as cabbage require higher amounts of nitrogen than root crops such as onions or carrots, where as shrubs and trees need more phosphorus and potash.
The same is also true of the trace elements, as the term implies, only a 'trace' is required, for healthy growth even if there is enough NPK available.
Nitrogen (N) is necessary for development of leaves and stems. Phosphorus (P) is for strong root systems.
Potash (K) is for healthy fruit, tubers, and leaves.
Where possible, choose a formula that matches your plant's requirements.
Soil characteristics ;
Soil conditions can influence the availability of nutrients, e.g. soil compaction and water-logging can stop essential nutrients being usable.
Light, sandy soils are often high in phosphates and low in potash.
Clay contains lots of potash that becomes available as the soil is aerated and limed.
Accurate assessment can be made by soil analysis, to determine deficiencies.
Application times;
Bulky, animal manures, mushroom compost and garden compost are best applied during the dormant season.
They can either be applied as a surface mulch, or dug into the soil.
Adding lime to the soil is an important resource, but is determined by the amount already in the soil, and the type of plants being cultivated.
Check your soil pH and add lime as necessary.
Sandy soils usually lack lime.
Avoid over-liming as this could 'lock up' some trace elements.
Feeding times;
Asparagus; Before growth stars in Spring
Aubergine; After fruit sets
Beans; After pod set
Broccoli; Three weeks after planting out, then as required
Brussel Sprouts; Two to four weeks after planting out or when plants are 300mm high.
Cabbage; Three weeks after planting out
Cauliflower; Three weeks after planting out
Cucumber; One week after plant blossoms and again three weeks later
Globe Artichoke; Planting time and monthly top dressings
Gourds/Squashes; A month after emergence from soil
Kale; When plants are approx 300mm (12") tall
Lettuce; Two/Three weeks after transplanting or emergence from soil
Melons; At planting out time
Onions; When bulbs begin to swell
Peas; Once established and when pods set
Peppers; After fruit sets
Potatoes; When in flower
Rhubarb; Before planting out
Spinach; When plants are approx 300mm (12") tall
Sweet corn; When 200mm (8") and again when ‘silks’ appear
Tomatoes; After fruit set then weekly
Water melon; When plants are approx 300mm (12") tall
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