The Lowdown on the Best Fertilizers for Home Lawns in Ontario
Fertilizer 101: What Nutrients Contribute to the Healthy Growth of Plants
Ever wonder what a plant does with fertilizer? Or what processes happen for plants to root, grow and develop? It isn’t all that different from us really. There is a food source that is taken up and nutrients extracted and dispersed to different areas of the plant and broken down for different uses. Let’s have a look at the major ones called Macronutrients.
NITROGEN
This is the first number you see in a fertilizer analysis. For example, with our starter which is 8-32-16, Nitrogen is represented by the 8. At the molecular level, Nitrogen is the basis for amino acids that combine to form proteins. This nutrient is also vital to chlorophyll for Photosynthesis, the essential process of obtaining energy to be used and stored in the plant. Simply, this nutrient is responsible for vegetative growth and development, density and color.
PHOSPHORUS
In our starter fertilizer, this nutrient is represented by the 32. At the molecular level it is essential in DNA. This nutrient is especially important in seedling formation and development, as well as root growth. It aids in structural strength and plant quality. Simply, it needs to be in abundance when seeding or laying sod.
POTASSIUM
This nutrient is represented by the 16 in our starter fertilizer example. At the molecular level, it is involved in various biochemical reactions including the production of sugars and starches. It also plays a significant role in maintaining turgor pressure (cell shape and rigidity), which is associated with disease resistance, strengthening of cell walls and increasing winter hardiness.
There are several micronutrients, such as Calcium, Magnesium, Sulfur, etc…seen in small quantities, that are helpful for plants to thrive as well. That is a whole other topic unto itself. The Macronutrients discussed above are the most important ones for homeowners to know.
Depending on the time of year or purpose for the fertilizer will determine what analysis is best for your lawn.
Choosing the right fertilizer is key to a strong, healthy lawn. Now that you understand what those numbers mean, visit our shop to find the blend that’s best for your lawn’s specific needs—or reach out to us with your lawn care questions, and we’ll be happy to help.
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