Plants grow with the help from the sun’s energy and nutrients found within the soil. Since the organic matter within the soil holds nutrients in, soil that is fertile and well-drained will be able to hold more of those nutrients. Since vegetables remove so many nutrients from the soil, they have very big appetites and require a great deal of nutrients that need to be replenished back into the soil. It is important to always follow the amounts that are listed on the label as to not over or under-fertilize your lovely garden.
Light feeders
Light feeders are typically used on smaller plants that can benefit from a basic starter fertilizer. Vegetables such as bush beans, mustard greens, peas, southern peas, and turnips, can benefit from a fertilizer that is enriched with compost.
Moderate feeders
Moderate feeders require a good amount of drainage and ability to hold moisture more than they need to be able to hold the fertilizer. Try not use organic fertilizers that contain a lot of manure when you are planting carrots, beets, potatoes, okra, pole beans, or root crops. Manure can create patches on your vegetables so you should try to use a liquid plant food if at all possible.
Heavy feeders
Heavy feeders are large plants that require a great deal of fertilizer. Even though they do require the right amount of fertilizer, make sure you do not go overboard. If you have a large vegetable garden, you may need a pull-type fertilizer spreader to help evenly distribute the fertilizer. This will also come in handy if you have a large farm. Here are some of the vegetables that require heavy feeders.
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Brussel sprouts
- Kale
- Onions
- Rhubarb
- Peppers
- Tomatoes
- Watermelon
- Squash
- Cantaloupe
- Eggplant
- Cucumbers
These vegetables in particular will benefit more from a liquid fertilizer composed with organic ingredients. If you are not sure what type of fertilizer is needed for your
garden, you can always talk to someone at your local garden center for more information on the different types of fertilizers that are available.
Making sure that your vegetable garden has the right amount of nutrients is a crucial part of keeping your garden healthy. Putting in too much or not enough fertilizer on your vegetable garden can be detrimental to your plants. Make sure you follow the directions on the package as to avoid adding too much of a good thing.
If you need a pull-type fertilizer spreader for your garden contact Fennig Equipment L.L.C. today. Visit their website to learn more about their products.
