Fertilizer confusion - Page 2

TexasTomat0 · May 9, 2017

Quote:

Originally Posted by AKmark

This link has some nice charts that show the element requirements for the tomato.
http://www.haifa-group.com/files/Gui...ato/Tomato.pdf

AKMark - that was a great read, a bit over my head but it contains great information. Thanks for the link.

brownrexx · May 9, 2017

I don't think that it pays to obsess too much over N, P & K which are macro nutrients. There are many micro nutrients and also microorganisms which contribute to a healthy soil and will give you excellent harvests of tasty tomatoes.

Microorganisms such as good bacteria and fungi as well as earthworms can not live on synthetic N,P & K fertilizers. You need to add compost or other organic materials like grass clippings or straw for them to live on and provide slow release nutrients to your plants.

I am not saying that you should never use synthetic fertilizers (although I don't) but don't forget to feed the living things in your soil too because they in turn will feed your plants.

Plants need many more things than just N,P and K.

May 9, 2017	#17
brownrexx Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Feb 2016 Location: Southeastern PA Posts: 1,420	I don't think that it pays to obsess too much over N, P & K which are macro nutrients. There are many micro nutrients and also microorganisms which contribute to a healthy soil and will give you excellent harvests of tasty tomatoes. Microorganisms such as good bacteria and fungi as well as earthworms can not live on synthetic N,P & K fertilizers. You need to add compost or other organic materials like grass clippings or straw for them to live on and provide slow release nutrients to your plants. I am not saying that you should never use synthetic fertilizers (although I don't) but don't forget to feed the living things in your soil too because they in turn will feed your plants. Plants need many more things than just N,P and K.