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Fertilisers Made Easy
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Time for a Simple Biology Lesson
I thought it was time for a simple biology lesson. It is coming up to spring and this is your opportunity to feed your plants for optimum growth during the summer and autumn months.
There are 15 elements essential for plant growth and development. Three of these elements, which make up about 95% of fresh plant tissue, are Carbon, Hydrogen and Oxygen. These are derived from carbon dioxide in the air that is absorbed by the leaves, and water in the soil that is absorbed by the roots. The remaining elements are taken in through the roots from the soil, or through the leaves. These nutrients are used to make “sugars” during photosynthesis. The “sugars” are converted into energy that the plant needs to grow.
There are three other elements that are important for plant growth. Have you ever wondered what the NPK on a fertiliser pack means - the (31-3-4)? It represents the ratio of Nitrogen (31), Phosphorus (3) and Potassium (4). N is the symbol for nitrogen, P is the symbol for phosphorus and K the symbol for potassium. In this instance, the fertiliser is high in nitrogen so it will be especially good for leafy vegetables such as lettuce, spinach or silverbeet.
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What do plants need?
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Nitrogen
Needed for: Leaf growth. Also an essential part of the green pigment chlorophyll. Nitrogen is good for leafy vegetables or as a general tonic to boost plant growth.
Source: Organic matter, e.g. Lawn clippings, compost, sheep or horse manure or blood and bone.
Deficiency: Plants will look stunted and the leaves pale green or yellow, sometimes with a reddish tint.
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Phosphorus
Needed for: The plant?s growing parts - stems, roots, seeds, flowers and developing seedlings.
Source: Superphosphate is the most common fertiliser rich in phosphates.
Deficiency: Plant will look stunted with a purplish colour to the leaves.
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Potassium
Needed for: Important for photosynthesis. Helps in the plants overall vigour, strength, water uptake and disease resistance. It also improves the plants? flower, fruit and seed quality.
Source: Potash is high in potassium.
Deficiency: Weak stems, with yellowing or browning around the edges and tips of older leaves.
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Limitation of Liability
This project has been produced to provide basic information and our experienced staff are available either in-store, or via phone or email, to answer any questions you may have. As this information is generalised Mitre 10 is not responsible for the application of the principles in any particular case, as the contents of this project may need to be modified for the particular site and circumstances. Consumers should always ensure that they comply with any local body bylaws that pertain to any construction project and consult a qualified tradesperson where expert services are required. |
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