What kind of fertilizer can be used as base fertilizer? Pay attention to these points.
Many people who grow vegetables or flowers often encounter the issue of fertilization. One common question is what kind of fertilizer can be used as base fertilizer. Base fertilizer is the type of fertilizer applied to the soil before sowing or transplanting. Its function is to provide long-term nutrients for crops, improve soil structure, and facilitate better root growth. Choosing the right base fertilizer can make subsequent management easier and ensure more stable yields and quality. To sum up, there are many types of fertilizers that can be used as base fertilizers. The key lies in the type of crop, soil conditions, and your management approach. By following the principles, you can make the right choice.
Let's start with the commonly used types of base fertilizers. Among organic fertilizers, compost is the most versatile and suitable for most crops and soils. The compost should be fully decomposed, with a darker color, loose texture, and no odor. Decomposed manure can also be used, such as that from cows, sheep, and chickens, but it must be fully decomposed; otherwise, it may burn roots and attract pests. Cake fertilizers are residues from oil crops, such as soybean cake and peanut cake, with a relatively high nitrogen content, making them suitable for leafy vegetables and crops that require more nitrogen. Bone meal mainly provides phosphorus and is suitable as a base fertilizer for fruit and flowering plants.
Fertilizers can also be used as base fertilizers. Among the single-component fertilizers of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, nitrogen fertilizers take effect quickly, phosphorus fertilizers promote root growth, and potassium fertilizers strengthen stems and enhance disease resistance. Compound fertilizers are fertilizers with a certain proportion of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium mixed together, which are convenient to use and suitable for most crops. Slow-release fertilizers are fertilizers that release nutrients slowly. One application can last for a relatively long time and are suitable for home gardening and lazy management.
Among other materials, wood ash contains potassium and can increase soil pH, making it suitable for acidic soil. Lime is used to neutralize acidic soil, and sulfur powder is used to lower soil pH. These two do not directly provide nutrients, but they can improve the soil environment, allowing the base fertilizer to work better.
How to choose the base fertilizer? It should be based on the crops and the soil. Leafy vegetables need more nitrogen, so the base fertilizer can contain more compost, manure or nitrogen fertilizers. Fruit and vegetable crops need more phosphorus and potassium, so adding bone meal, potassium fertilizer or compound fertilizers with high phosphorus and potassium content is more appropriate. Root and stem crops need loose soil and an appropriate amount of potassium, and compost combined with potassium fertilizer works well.
Judging the quality of soil can be done with simple methods. By observing the color and texture, soil with a deep color, loose texture and visible humus has a high organic matter content and can use less fertilizer. Soil with a light color and a compact texture requires more organic fertilizer. Soil acidity and alkalinity can be measured using test strips. A pH value less than 6 indicates acidity, and a value greater than 7 indicates alkalinity. Acidic soil can be treated with wood ash or a small amount of lime, while alkaline soil can be treated with compost and a small amount of sulfur powder.
Quantity estimation doesn't require complex calculations. Based on the area, about one to two kilograms of compost or decomposed manure fertilizer should be applied per square meter in a home vegetable garden. The amount of compound fertilizer should be reduced by half to two-thirds according to the package instructions. The application of slow-release fertilizer should be done according to the package instructions. If the soil is very poor, the amount of organic fertilizer can be appropriately increased.
When applying, pay attention to the timing, location and depth. The base fertilizer is best applied one week before sowing or transplanting, allowing the fertilizer to fully mix with the soil. Furrow application involves making a furrow beside the sowing furrow or transplant hole, then applying the fertilizer and covering it with soil. Hole application involves placing a small amount of fertilizer in each hole, suitable for transplanting. Broadcast application involves spreading the fertilizer evenly on the surface of the soil and then mixing it into the soil, suitable for large-scale planting.
The depth of fertilization is generally between 10 and 20 centimeters, matching the distribution of the crop's root system. The fertilizer should be thoroughly mixed with the soil to avoid direct contact with the seeds or roots, which could cause root burn. After application, water should be applied promptly to allow the fertilizer to start dissolving and releasing nutrients.
Common mistakes should be avoided. First, using uncomposted organic fertilizers can cause heat buildup, damage the roots, and produce unpleasant odors and attract pests. Second, over-fertilization, especially excessive use of nitrogen and quick-release fertilizers, can lead to excessive growth and root damage. Third, the fertilizer application is too far from or too close to the root system. Too far away means insufficient absorption, and too close can harm the roots. Fourth, ignoring soil pH, either being too acidic or too alkaline, will affect nutrient absorption. It is necessary to adjust the pH first before fertilizing. Fifth, only applying nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium without supplementing organic matter will cause the soil to become compacted over time. Regular addition of compost is required.
In the risk warning section, for chemical fertilizers, the dosage should be in accordance with the instructions to avoid overuse. For organic fertilizers, ensure they are fully decomposed and of reliable origin. Do not use compost containing oils, meat, dairy products or pet feces. The dosages of wood ash, lime and sulfur powder should be controlled. Excessive use will significantly alter the soil pH and negatively affect crop growth.
In summary, fertilizers that can be used as base fertilizers include organic fertilizers, chemical fertilizers, and some soil improvement materials. When choosing base fertilizers, consider the crop requirements, soil conditions, and management methods. By applying them in the correct amount and method, the desired effect can be achieved. Here is a direct-to-do list for you: First, determine the soil pH and organic matter content; choose the type of base fertilizer based on the crop type; prioritize organic fertilizers, supplemented by compound fertilizers or slow-release fertilizers; estimate the dosage at one to two kilograms per square meter; apply it one to two weeks before sowing or transplanting; use furrow or hole application, with a depth of ten to twenty centimeters; mix thoroughly with the soil to avoid contact with seeds and roots; water after application; regularly test the soil and the growth of the crops, and make supplementary fertilization when necessary; record the dosage and effect, and adjust for the next season.
