|
Apply Only The Nutrients
Plants Can Use
In Your Backyard
Twenty nutrients have been
identified that are required by plants. Of these, nitrogen, phosphorus,
and potassium are required in relatively large amounts. Nitrogen is
associated with lush vegetative growth, adequate phosphorus is required
for flowering and fruiting, and potassium is necessary for durability and
disease resistance. Calcium, sulfur, and magnesium are also required in
comparatively large quantities. These six nutrients are referred to as
macronutrients.
The other nutrients, referred
to as micronutrients, are required in very small amounts. These include
such elements as copper, zinc, iron and boron. While both macro and
micronutrients are required for good plant growth, over-application can be
as detrimental as a deficiency. Over-application of plant nutrients not
only may impair plant growth, but may contaminate groundwater by leaching
through the soil or pollute surface waters by washing away.
Soil testing is key to
applying the correct amount and kind of nutrient.
*Note: from an article in
BackYard Conservation - April 1998. Producted by the USDA/NRCS; NACD &
Wildlife Habitat Council.
|
