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We've taken an in-depth look at the advantages and disadvantages of solid and liquid fertilisers.
(We looked at defining the best organic fertilisers in our earlier blog)
The choice between applying a liquid fertiliser or a dry granular fertiliser is a matter of purpose. What are you trying to achieve? Is it a quick fix? Are you aiming for long-term nutrition or something to work within one growing season? Here are a few things to consider when making your choice.
- Liquid form - Easy to apply - Elements are more mobile and get closer to the roots - A good starter food. - Uniformity of application - Starter and in-season application.
- Needs to be applied more frequently - Limited nutrition due to the insolubility of some elements - Material will settle out in the container - Elements are soluble, so will wash from the soil with heavy irrigation or rain
- Broad-spectrum of nutrition - Slow-release allows for long term feeding - Enhances microbes in the soil - Applications are less frequent - Conditions soil - Improves water retention
- Plants will steer away from bands of granular fertilizer that contain high amounts of nitrogen or potassium - Application and preparation can be dusty - Some ingredients may be hard to obtain from retailers - Fertiliser timing and application
- Plants require different foods at different times in their life cycle. In the beginning, as leaves are developing, they require nitrogen and elements that support cell division. At bloom time they require potassium and trace elements. At dormancy for perennials, root crops, or trees they are looking for phosphorus and the material required for a robust root system that will last over the winter
- When fertilising organically, think of your applications as pre-emptive—to address the future needs of the plant. At seeding, a liquid application of fertilizer provides immediate access to nutrients for developing roots but should be used in combination with granular fertilizers, which ensure consistent availability as the plant develops. With each transplant, bone meal or rock phosphate should be applied to encourage root growth as well as potassium in the form of kelp for the future needs in bloom.
Although there are fewer risks associated with organic fertilizers, they can still harm children and pets if consumed in concentrated amounts. Dogs are often attracted to the scent of blood or bone meal, while cats may prefer fish emulsion fertilizers. Both may dig in areas where these fertilizers have been applied, disturbing soil and plants. To prevent harmful ingestion, apply fertilizers at root level and avoid concentrating your application by working into the soil and burying. Store fertilizers in a safe place away from curious visitors.
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