N-P-K: The elemental shorthand for the three major nutrients in fertilizers. “N” stands for Nitrogen, “P” stands for Phosphate (P2O2) and “K” stands for Potash (K2O). These are the chemical forms of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium that are present in fertilizers. The three numbers on a fertilizer label directly correspond to these nutrients.
Trying to determine what fertilizer to use can be an overwhelming task. Which mix do you need for your plants? The numbers represent the percentage (by weight) of the three major nutrients required for healthy plant growth, always in the same order: nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (N-P-K). Each of these nutrients affects plant growth differently, and the formulation you select should depend on your specific gardening needs.
The first number is the amount of nitrogen in the bag. So a bag of 16-8-4 has 16 percent total nitrogen. Nitrogen provides plants with the ability to produce more chlorophyll, which in turn allows plants to grow quickly. With each additional nitrogen application, plants will grow taller and develop a darker green color. So if you want a dark green lawn, use a fertilizer that’s high in nitrogen – but then expect to mow more often. If your plant starts to look yellow that is typically a sign of a nitrogen deficiency.
The second number is the amount of phosphorus in the mix. For example, a bag of 16-8-4 would contain 8 percent phosphorus. Phosphorous aids in root development and increases flowering ability and bloom size. The fertilizer industry markets high phosphorus fertilizer as “Bloom Booster.” Purple foliage, on an otherwise green foliage plant, is a sign of a phosphorus deficiency.
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