Fertiliser

Fertiliser is an umbrella term for substances or substance mixtures used in horticulture and agriculture to supply plants with nutrients in a targeted way. Feeding plants according to their needs can significantly improve growth, plant health and yield.

Many soils do not contain all the necessary nutrients in sufficient amounts. Fertilisers make up for these shortfalls and support plants, especially during periods of intensive growth and flowering.

The most important nutrients in fertiliser are the so-called primary nutrients:

• Nitrogen (N) – promotes leaf growth and green plant parts
• Phosphorus (P) – supports root formation, flowering and fruit set
• Potassium (K) – strengthens cell structure, resilience and water balance

Depending on their origin and mode of action, a basic distinction is made between organic fertiliser and mineral fertiliser. Organic fertilisers come from plant or animal materials and usually act more slowly, but are sustainable and improve soil structure. Mineral fertilisers contain nutrients in a directly available form and take effect quickly, but require careful dosing.

Besides their composition, fertilisers also differ in their form:

• Liquid fertiliser acts quickly and is particularly suitable for container and balcony plants or for targeted nutrient application.
• Granular fertiliser, such as pellets or granules, is worked into the soil and supplies plants over a longer period.
• Slow-release fertiliser releases its nutrients in a controlled way over weeks or months.

Which type of fertiliser is suitable depends on the plant species, the position (full sun / partial shade), the soil and the respective growth stage. Appropriately adjusted feeding contributes decisively to healthy, resilient plants.