As an experienced nurseryman and landscaping expert , I can confidently say that adding fertilizer to your seed starting mix can be beneficial for the growth and ontogeny of your seedling . While it is true that seedlings ab initio deduct nutrient from the dirt in which they are plant , it is of import to provide them with additional nourishment as they stay to grow .
When it comes to fertilizing seedling , timing is central . Once your seedlings have reached a superlative of three inches , it is generally a good time to start inseminate them . At this stage , they have develop a potent root system and can well steep the nutrients from the fertilizer .
There are three primal nutrients that all plants require for healthy growth : nitrogen ( N ) , phosphorus ( phosphorus ) , and potassium ( K ) . These nutrients are commonly represented by three numbers on plant food bag , such as 2 - 2 - 3 . The first number comprise the percentage of nitrogen , the second bit comprise the percentage of phosphorus , and the third figure represent the percent of potassium .
Nitrogen is essential for kick upstairs leafy growth and overall plant vigor . Phosphorus is important for root development , flowering , and yield production . Potassium avail with overall plant health , disease resistivity , and stress permissiveness . Therefore , it is authoritative to choose a fertilizer that provides a balanced proportion of these food .
When select a fertilizer for your seedlings , you may opt for a deadening - tone ending chondritic fertilizer or a water - soluble fertilizer . dull - release fertilizer are applied once and eject nutrients gradually over a farsighted period of time . Water - soluble fertilizers , on the other paw , are mixed with piss and give more ofttimes , commonly on a hebdomadal basis .
Personally , I have found success using a balanced , water system - soluble fertiliser for my seedlings . I mingle the fertilizer according to the instructions on the software package and use it to my seedlings once a workweek . This help check that they receive a steadfast provision of nutrients to brook their growth .
It is important to note that while fertilizing can be good , it is also possible to over - fertilize your seedlings , which can lead to nutrient burn or stunt growth . It is always good to postdate the instructions on the fertilizer package and to monitor your seedling ’ reply to the fertilisation . If you mark any signs of nutrient burn , such as yellowing or wilting leaves , it may be necessary to slenderize the frequency or strength of the fertilizer .
impart plant food to your seed starting mixture can render your seedlings with the necessary nutrient for healthy development . By fertilize after they attain three inches in height and continue to fertilize on a hebdomadal cornerstone , you’re able to support their growth until they are ready for transplant . Just remember to prefer a fertilizer with a balanced proportion of nitrogen , phosphorus , and potassium , and to monitor your seedling ’ answer to the fertilization to nullify overdoing it .
Caroline Bates
