How to properly fertilize?
If you want to maximize your efforts in growing plants, fertilization is an absolutely essential and key part of it. To some, it may seem complicated, but it's not rocket science. Let's look at the basic rules, by following which you'll be delighted with your harvest.
Fertilizers generally contain three basic nutrients, abbreviated as NPK (N - nitrogen, P - phosphorus, K - potassium). In the vegetative phase, the plant needs sufficient nitrogen (N), which supports growth and the formation of strong green parts of the plant, i.e., stems and leaves. This is possible primarily due to nitrogen's ability to form chlorophyll, which is responsible for the proper course of photosynthesis. Phosphorus (P) is mainly important in the vegetative phase for the healthy growth of the root system. In outdoor cultivation, the growth phase usually lasts longer; in indoor conditions, it very quickly transitions into the flowering phase. Plants begin to flower either based on photoperiod (according to day length) or depending on their age. Flowers and fruits begin to form in this case when the plant is sufficiently mature. When transitioning to the flowering phase, we reduce nitrogen intake in favor of potassium (K) and phosphorus, which promotes lush flowering and increases yields. Potassium then helps in the formation of important compounds in the plant and at the same time improves overall resistance to diseases and stress.
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In addition to nutrient deficiency in a given phase, we must also be careful about over-fertilization. In an effort to "indulge" your plants, it can easily happen that you over-fertilize them and thus destroy them. Each plant is only capable of absorbing a certain amount of nutrients; the rest then remain in the substrate and salinize it. It is therefore necessary to stick to the recommended doses from fertilizer manufacturers and not try to "improve" plants in good faith. Moreover, if you use special substrates, they are usually pre-fertilized for the first 2-4 weeks of growth, so you should only start fertilizing after this period. For correct nutrient dosing in certain stages of plant development, it is not necessary to painstakingly calculate the ratios of individual components, but rather to use a wide range of organic and mineral fertilizers exactly according to your requirements and cultivation method.
New in our range are fertilizers from the Dutch company Bio Nova, which are environmentally friendly, easy to use, and ensure high yields. Bio Nova dosing charts will help you with precise fertilizer dosing, so you don't have to worry about over-fertilization or, conversely, nutrient deficiency. We also offer fertilizers from brands such as: Plagron, Advanced Hydroponics, BioBizz,Canna and many others.