NPK nutrients for plants

A prerequisite for successful cultivation with healthy plants is the appropriate supply of nutrients. In most cases - and especially in indoor cultivation - nutrients must be added in the form of fertilisers. But this is where the problems begin: which fertiliser do I buy and how do I use it optimally for my purposes? In most cases, NPK nutrients have proven themselves.

Types of nutrients for plants

In general, a distinction is made between two basic types of nutrients for plant cultivation:

• mineral fertilisers
• organic / biological nutrient additives

NPK fertilisers

In most cases, so-called NPK fertilisers are used for plant cultivation. This abbreviation is made up of the chemical abbreviations for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). NPK nutrients are well suited to ensuring an even supply of these three important basic substances. But be careful: not all NPK fertilisers have the same composition. Depending on the type of plant and growth phase, different mixing ratios may be required.

Organic nutrients

Organic nutrients, which can be used as fertilisers, are also very popular - especially among organic farming enthusiasts. Examples include green manure, the addition of horse manure or horn meal. However, nature also provides a variety of other organic fertilisers

Dosage of nutrients

As important as fertilising is: After solid comes off! Too many nutrients are just as harmful as too few and the amount of fertiliser should always be in line with the plant's needs. Most types of liquid fertiliser therefore have more or less detailed fertiliser instructions either on the bottles themselves or as an enclosed diagram. If you observe certain deficiency symptoms, you can sometimes disregard them to a certain extent. In general, however, you should at least follow the intention of the instructions. Beginners in particular often fare best with this healthy dose of blind faith.