Garden Fertilizers Demystified: N-P-K Ratios, Timing & Organic Options

Fertilizer numbers (e.g., 10-10-10) represent nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) percentages. Balanced formulas suit most gardens. More isn't better—excess burns seedlings and favors leaves over flowers/fruit. Nitrogen is the usual culprit; many use 5-10-10 starter for seedlings.

Apply per package directions—fall incorporation or after first true leaves. Species-specific blends (roses, tomatoes) help specialized plantings.

Organic Fertilizers

"Organic" on fertilizer means nutrients derive solely from once-living sources, not synthesis. Cottonseed meal, blood meal, fish emulsion, manure are common. They require active soil biology (warm, moist) to release nutrients—slower but soil-building.