Fertilizers are a mix of chemical substances, which are introduced to plant life either indirectly through the soil and/or directly by spraying the leaves of the plants. Fertilizers comprise of 3 focal nutrients i.e. nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. In addition, fertilizers certain secondary nutrients such as calcium, magnesium and sulfur; as well as trace elements like boron, iron, zinc and copper. While all plant life requires the 3 major nutrients, the subsidiary elements are required in varying degrees... This is why understanding fertilizers is so important.

Of the secondary nutrients, calcium is the most important. A lack of calcium in fertilizer accounts for the reduced strength of the plant. The best source of calcium is limestone. A variety of limestone is available to you - dolomitic, calcitic or agricultural - all of which are effective; however, dolomitic limestone has the added benefit of being composed of magnesium as well. Calcium sulfate or gypsum, on the other hand, is a better choice for alkaline soil, as it does not affect the ph balance of the soil. For every 100 square feet use 2-5 pounds of limestone. Keep in mind, if the soil contains significant amounts of clay or sand, then less limestone will be required.

Other sources of calcium include eggshells, which you may introduce to the soil not only for its nutrient content, but also as a deterrent for slugs. Oyster shells are yet another source of calcium that you can use as an all natural substitute for fertilizer.

Magnesium levels in the soil may be rectified by using Epsom salts. The magnesium content of Epsom salts accounts to 10 percent. Epsom salts should be administered during the growing season - for every 100 square feet approximately one pound of the salts should be used. Magnesium levels in the soil may alternatively be raised with Sul-Po-Mag, which includes some macro and micro nutrients: potassium, magnesium and sulfur. The effects of the latter last for a considerably greater duration as compared to the Epsom salts.

Trace elements may be supplied to the soil with products such as greensand, alfalfa meal, kelp meal, seaweed products and even worn castings. Rock dusts such as granite dust and rock phosphate are also rich in trace elements. It should be mentioned that the aforementioned products carry a load of primary and secondary nutrients, as well as some trace elements; and they may linger in your soil for as much as a span of 5 years! Finally, compost itself may provide the necessary nutrients to your garden.

So, remember to fertilize / feed your garden regularly, and also ensure that your plants are being presented with all the essential nutrients that are imperative for their growth.

Here is another great article about fertilizing your Lawn & Garden

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All About Weeds, Common Lawn Problems, Controlling Lawn Diseases, Four Steps to a Great Lawn, How to Water Your Lawn, Inexpensive Lawn Fertilizer, Lawns in Shady Areas, Thatching, Turf Secrets, Types of Lawn Recreation, Care Free Lawns, Creating a Perfect Lawn, Earth Friendly Golf Courses, Feeding Your Lawn, Fertilizing Basics, Mowers and Pollution, Natural Ways to Fertilize, The Right Time To Fertilize, Types of Lawn Fertilizers