We already know that the soil in which a plant is rooted, is a key source of nourishment and so is responsible for the mortality of the plant. Plants are equipped with certain mechanisms that enable it to literally draw strength from the soil. This process of growth begins at the level of the roots; the plant absorbs nutrients from the soil through its root hairs, and above ground it captures the sun's energy to convert these chemical substances into protein, starches and sugars.

In virgin soil, nutrients are usually abundant; however, in soil which is in a state of exhaustion the necessary nourishment may not be fully available to the plant. In such instances, you need to tamper with the soil so as to ensure the development of your plants. Here comes the role of the fertilizer, which basically may be thought of as a food supplement for plants. Fertilizers may be a natural or synthetic composition of chemical substances. Natural fertilizers are known as slow release fertilizers as their nutrients take longer to dissolve in water, whereas synthetic fertilizers are of the quick release category and provide quick energy to the plant.

Commercial fertilizers comprise a label indicating the amount of nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) that it contains. The need for fertilizers with varying amounts of these elements is a requisite, as different soils and different plants will have contrasting requirements. In fact, it is important to have the soil in your garden assessed by experts so that you may procure the appropriate fertilizer.

Like humans, plants too require a combination of nutrients in their diet. To plan their diet chart, you need to decipher what their present intake is and what their future needs are. For example, nitrogen promotes the growth of leaves; so, if you are growing vegetables like cabbage and spinach, you may prefer to acquire a fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content. Phosphate, on the other hand, is responsible for the development of healthy roots, fruits and flowers; so, if you are cultivating root crops such as turnips and beetroots, a fertilizer with a high percentage of phosphate may be more suitable. Potassium in the soil accounts for the overall strength of the plant; it also encourages the healthy color and taste of fruits and vegetables. Clearly, some thought is required when purchasing fertilizer.

Once you have decided on the particular composition of fertilizer your garden requires, the next step is to decide in which form you want to purchase the fertilizer. Fertilizer comes in 2 forms: a liquid form and a granular form. The liquid form should be simply mixed with water, and administered to the plants with a watering can. This water soluble form of fertilizer is especially suitable for annuals. Of course, one of the drawbacks of using such a fertilizer is that with the rain it gets washed away, and so the plants would require a second dose of fertilizer. The granular form, in contrast, may be spread by hand in and around the plant's base, and firmly pressed into the soil. Unlike the liquid fertilizer, the granular fertilizer does not get washed away, rather it is encouraged to sink deeper into the soil. Granular fertilizers are the preferred choice for perennials and vegetables.

This is also another great article about fertilizing you lawn & garden.

also this article on the right time to fertilize

If you like lawn care....These pages might also interest you:

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