A garden soil in which something good is to grow must be fertilized. If it may still have enough nutrients at the beginning, this depot will empty over time. But when, with what and how much should fertilizer be used?
How do you properly fertilize garden soil?
In order to effectively fertilize garden soil, the soil should first be analyzed to determine the nutrient requirements. Depending on the plant needs, organic long-term fertilizers or mineral fertilizers are suitable. The optimal time to fertilize is during the growth phase of the plants.
Analyze soil
Plants need not just one, but a combination of different nutrients. They have to find these in the ground in good time. Fertilizing ensures that the soil has enough of it. But what nutrients is the soil missing? Unfortunately you can't see that on earth.
You should therefore take soil samples every 2-3 years from areas that you farm intensively. They are sent to a laboratory that analyzes the composition. After a few days you will receive the results along with a fertilizer recommendation. This way you can also determine the pH value of the soil.
Consider plant needs
The nutrient requirements of different plant varieties differ qualitatively and quantitatively. Obtain appropriate information well in advance of planting. You should stick to the recommended amount of fertilizer. Some plants react more sensitively to over-fertilization than to a slight nutrient deficiency.
Tip
If your plants show yellow leaves, this symptom can also be an indication of incorrect or inadequate fertilization.
Suitable fertilizers
The number 1 fertilizer in the home garden is probably home-made compost. It releases its nutrients evenly into the soil. Other popular organic long-term fertilizers include horn shavings and horse manure (€12.00 on Amazon). The garden soil can be fertilized with plant manure in an ecologically compatible and free manner. For example with the well-known nettle manure.
Mineral fertilizers are also available in stores that have an immediate effect. But their use should be done carefully. They are particularly suitable when the soil is missing a specific element and needs to be added quickly.
Limescale-sensitive plants
Some plant species do not like large amounts of lime, e.g. B. Rhododendrons. They must therefore not be supplied with compost. You need a special fertilizer that makes the garden soil acidic.
Optimal timing
- Nutrients are needed at the time of growth
- Organic long-term fertilizers can be applied all year round
- ideally before planting
- During the growing season, some plants require additional fertilization
- Use mineral fertilizers only during the growth phase
- In case of deficiency symptoms, supply missing nutrients promptly
Autumn fertilization
You can improve your garden soil in autumn if you sow a green manure on the fallow area and then work it into the soil in late autumn.
