Grower Today

Category: Soil Amendments & Fertilizers

  • The Magnificent Red Spider Lily And All There Is To Know

    The Magnificent Red Spider Lily And All There Is To Know

    The red spider lily or the Lycoris radiate blooms in the late summer and early fall. As a carefree plant that grows easily, it is capable of growing in most parts of the country.

    Also known as the hurricane lily, it is a herbaceous perennial plant that has a wide variety of uses. It can be used as a groundcover or on borders.

    The red spider lily has a beautiful, distinct look. In this article, we will give you all the information you need to know about this plant.

    History Of The Red Spider Lily

    The red spider lily is native to Southeast Asia. In 1854, Captain William Roberts of the U.S. Navy acquired three red spider lily bulbs from Japan.  Though described to be “in such a dry condition that they did not show signs of life until the War between the States” they were eventually planted in America.

    Despite their conditions, the three bulbs survived and grew in their new home in North Carolina. They began spreading across the Southern United States before becoming popular nationwide.

    It is considered to be one of the most beautiful plants in the world. It is also one of the easiest plants to grow. The coral-red flowers have exceptionally long stamens which give the plant a unique look.

    Characteristics Of The Red Spider Lily

    The red spider lily has vibrant, coral-red flowers that have a slight golden sheen in the sunlight. The petals are delicate and curl inward and the stamens of the flower are long, wiry, and prominent.

    The red spider lily has a nice aroma that is not too overwhelming. This plant bloom depends on your location, blooming from late summer to early fall.  The flowers are large, red, and bloom for about two weeks.

    Propagation

    This plant is easy to propagate as it can be grown from bulbs. When planting bulbs, you need to make sure that you plant them in an area where there is enough light.

    The bulbs should be planted at a depth of about four to six inches and should be in a place where they will get full or partial sunlight. Water them well and keep them moist until they sprout.

    Growing

    The red spider lily grows from a bulb that can be planted in fall or early spring.  The bulbs of this plant are very easy to grow and need little care. They can grow in USDA zones 6-10. 

    Red spider lilies are very hardy and can handle most conditions. They should be planted in soil that is well draining and rich in organic matter.

    The soil should have moderate moisture so it will not dry out. During the growing season, they will need around one inch of water a week.

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    Maintenance

    The red spider lily has very little maintenance. You just need to water the plant about one inch of water a week and that is it. It does not need much fertilizer.

    It is best to feed high-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring, as this will provide the plant with the nutrients it needs for growth. A fertilizer that is high in potassium and phosphorus can be beneficial after bloom to help with root growth and hardiness.

    Soil

    The red spider lily likes well-draining soil that has good drainage. The soil should be rich in organic matter. Ideally, the soil should be slightly alkaline.

    Temperature

    The red spider lily does not like cold temperatures. If you are growing them in zones six or seven, it is best to add mulch to protect the leaves and exposed bulbs from cold winter weather.

    Humidity

    The red spider lily does best in relative humidity around 40-50%.

    What does a red spider lily symbolize

    Harvesting

    When you want to harvest the red spider lily, wait until it has finished flowering. Then cut the stalk at the base of the plant. After you harvest it, place your flower in a vase of water.

    In Conclusion

    The red spider lily is one of the most attractive plants one can grow in America. These flowers are stunning and make your lawn or garden look so beautiful. Why not try growing them today?

    Read more about Growing The Pink Spider Lily From Seed.

    FAQs

    What does a red spider lily symbolize?

    The red spider lily symbolizes final goodbyes and the story goes that they grow wherever people part ways for good. The red spider lily is also said to guide the dead through the cycle of rebirth in Buddhism.

    Can I touch a red spider lily?

    It is not recommended that you touch a red spider lily due to its fragility. If you choose to cut them for a bouquet, be very careful. 

    Do Red spider lilies come back every year?

    Yes, red spider lilies will bloom annually in most cases. They are hardy perennials that prefer well-draining soils. They grow best in full or partial sun, and they are drought tolerant.

    Do Red spider lilies grow wild?

    Yes, they can be found growing naturally in the southeastern United States.

  • Does Fertilizer Go Bad? – An In-depth Look

    Does Fertilizer Go Bad? – An In-depth Look

    Does fertilizer go bad or does it last forever without losing any of its nutrients all this time?  This is a question we seek to answer in this article.

    Fertilizer is the most important part of the soil.  It helps to improve the quality and quantity of crop output.  It is the most expensive component of a farm.

    Without fertilizer, it would be impossible to produce enough food for everyone.  So, if fertilizer goes bad, how can you know that the fertilizer you are using is good?  How long does it last?  Will it lose its nutrients over time?

    We will answer some of these questions in this article. In the process of answering these questions, we will also learn more about fertilizers.

    The purpose of this article is to educate people about how to use fertilizers, so that they may make better decisions about their use.  Also, we want to provide farmers with information on the benefits of proper fertilization.

    Does Fertilizer Go Bad?

    In most cases, dry fertilizer doesn’t go bad but it can lose its effectiveness over time depending on the type of fertilizer. 

    Fertilizer comes in dry and liquid forms. If properly stored, most dry crystallized fertilizer and dry granular fertilizer can last indefinitely.

    Liquid organic fertilizer can last for 5-8 years and liquid mineral fertilizer can last for up to 10 years. Fertilizers that contain AI’s (active ingredients) found in weed and pest control products generally last for 1-4 years. This is because pFertilizersesticides and herbicides will lose their potency over time.

    If you have a container with your fertilizer you should keep it closed and stored away from heat or sunlight.  The best way to store your fertilizer is in the shade. Be sure that the area you are storing it in is also dry as well.

    Fertilizer that has nitrogen-rich ingredients may leach some of that nitrogen if they get too wet or too hot. Just be extra careful when storing nitrogen-rich fertilizers to prevent this from happening.

    If you are unsure about the fertilizer you purchased, ask the store where you bought it. They may be able to tell you the amount of time until you need to use the fertilizer.

    What is a Good Fertilizer For Plants?

    You should use a fertilizer that is formulated for your specific plant.  Most fertilizer products are labeled with their nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) content.

    Fertilizers typically contain these nutrients in the form of chemical compounds, which may be inorganic or organic.  The chemical composition of fertilizers varies widely and is often proprietary to the manufacturer.

    As a general rule, many plants prefer fertilizers that are rich in nitrogen. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers can include nitrate, ammonia, ammonium, or urea, plus micro-nutrients. 

    Phosphorus-rich fertilizers include rock phosphate, ammonium phosphates, ammonium polyphosphate, phosphoric acid, calcium orthophosphate, and nitric phosphates. Plants do need magnesium, as magnesium helps improve crop yield. 

    Magnesium-rich fertilizers include dolomitic limestone and seaweed meal.  If you have a fertilizer that is labeled with the nutrients you want to add, then it will be better for your plants. 

    If you have no idea what nutrient you want to add to your soil, then a general balanced fertilizer may be best.  There are many different types of general fertilizers, so you should choose one that includes the nutrients you want to add.

    The Most Common General Fertilizers Are:

    Organic fertilizers, such as compost, peat moss, and fish emulsion.

    Inorganic fertilizers, such as ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, triple superphosphate, diammonium phosphate, and monoammonium phosphate.

    General fertilizers are usually labeled with their N, P, and K content.  You can use a general fertilizer with any nutrient content, but if you are adding a specific nutrient to your soil, then you should use a fertilizer that is labeled with that nutrient.

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    Does Fertilizer Lose Its Nutrients?

    Does fertilizer go bad?  If you have bought liquid fertilizer that has overstayed at the store, it is possible that it will not be as effective as it should but dry fertilizer should not go bad in the right conditions. If you fertilize your lawn or garden every month, you might want to consider how long your fertilizer is available to your plants.

    Some fertilizer products are formulated to be used for a specific period, and if the product is overstayed, the plant’s nutrient value will be affected.

    How long does dry fertilizer last

    Take-Home – Does Fertilizer Go Bad?

    So does fertilizer go bad?  Most dry crystallized fertilizer and dry granular fertilizer can last indefinitely when properly stored.

    Liquid organic fertilizer stays good for 5-8 years and liquid mineral fertilizer can stay good for up to 10 years. Fertilizers that contain active ingredients generally last for 1-4 years.

    Organic fertilizers are very similar to natural ones in terms of going bad.  Though it’s organic, you can’t keep it for far too long, it will not be potent or helpful to your plants as all the nutrients will be too weak to make an impact.

    Read more about What Is The Best Fertilizer For Green Beans? Find Out Here.

    FAQs

    How long does dry fertilizer last?

    If properly stored, most dry crystallized fertilizer and dry granular fertilizer can last indefinitely. Fertilizers that contain active ingredients found in weed and pest control products generally last for 1-4 years.

    How long can fertilizer be stored?

    If properly stored, most dry crystallized fertilizer and dry granular fertilizer can last indefinitely. Liquid organic fertilizer can last for 5-8 years and liquid mineral fertilizer can last for up to 10 years. Fertilizers that contain active ingredients found in weed and pest control products generally last for 1-4 years.

    Does fertilizer lose its potency over time?

    Some types of fertilizer will lose potency over time.  However, if the fertilizer is kept properly stored and used correctly, it will last longer than most other commodities.

    Is old fertilizer useful?

    Yes, old fertilizer is still good.  The only thing to consider is that the fertilizer may not be as potent as the new fertilizer.  Old dry fertilizer should be used to replenish nutrients in the soil.

  • How Deep Do Tomato Roots Grow?

    How Deep Do Tomato Roots Grow?

    These types of soil are composed of loam and sand, with low clay content. These soils are good for growing root crops such as beans, carrots, and lettuce. The rich, organic matter in loam soil will help your tomatoes grow large and flavorful.

    Loam soil is great for holding moisture while still providing proper drainage. It works well for a variety of plants.

    Type 2: Sandy soils

    Sandy soils are made up of gritty textures including sand and gravel, often with high sand content. These soils are pracical for growing root vegetables and herbs native to the Mediterranean. Tomatoes can grow in sandy soil that is slightly acidic. 

    Type 3: Clay soils

    These types of soil are composed of very fine mineral particles, with high clay content. Clay soil provides tomatoes with important nutrients to grow strong and healthy. However, clay soil can be heavy so it is best to mix it with another type of soil.

    Type 4: Peat soils

    Peat soil is made from organic materials that have been decomposed. They are good for growing root crops such as parsnips, turnips, radishes, beetroot, carrots, and potatoes. Peat moss can be a particularly great option for growing tomatoes. 

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    Growing Tomatoes

    As we have seen above, tomato roots are deep and need at least two to three feet. They can be grown in a variety of soils including loam, peat, clay, and sand. Planting tomatoes requires proper soil preparation and spacing.

    This is especially true if you want to get a yield of 10-20 pounds per plant.  In this case, you need to make sure that your soil has plenty of nutrients for the plants to grow well and that there is ample space between each plant.

    We have some great tips on how to prepare the soil and planting depth for your tomatoes.

    • If you are having trouble with your soil, then you may need to add compost or topsoil to it.
    • You should also make sure that your soil is well-drained. This means that you should not have standing water in your planting area. If you are unsure if the soil is well-drained, then you can test it by putting a small bucket in your planting area. If water drains out of the bucket quickly, then your soil is good for planting. If it does not drain, then you should add more compost or topsoil to your planting area.
    • If you are planting in pots, then you will need to make sure that your pot is at least two feet deep.
    • If you are planting directly in the ground, then you will need to make sure that you are planting a full 2/3 of the plant underground. This depth will give your plants plenty of room to grow and get bigger.
    • You should also make sure that you use fertilizer on your plants. 
    • If you want to plant your tomatoes indoors, then you will need to make sure that you keep your plant area at a temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. 
    • You will also want to make sure that you water your plants thoroughly. Watering your plants thoroughly will help your plants to get bigger and produce more tomatoes.
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    In Conclusion – How Deep Do Tomato Roots Grow?

    It is important to know deep do tomato roots grow before you get planting. The depth of tomato plants is generally between two to three feet. Different soils can be used and again even the type matters. 

    Read more about Timber Grow Lights For Plants – Grow Light Info.

    FAQs

    How deep and wide do tomato roots grow?

    The roots can reach a depth of two to three feet, with lateral roots reaching up to two feet. In the field, they grow as a network of fine roots that are used to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.

    Is 12 inches deep enough for tomatoes?

    You should provide tomato plants with at least two to three feet of depth to provide them plenty of room to grow.

    How deep should a raised garden bed be for tomatoes?

    The depth of the raised garden bed should be at least 12 inches deep.

    How deep do cherry tomato roots grow?

    Cherry tomatoes roots will grow to be around two feet deep.

    If you are thinking of growing tomatoes, it is important to know just how deep do tomato roots grow to prepare your soil before planting.

    Tomatoes are a warm-season vegetable and like most plants, they need to be grown in the right type of soil to perform at their best.  This article will help you understand how deep your roots should be planted. This will help ensure that you prepare the correct soil for your tomato plants to grow in.

    You can use this information to ensure that you plant your tomatoes in the correct soil. In addition, you can also ensure that your plants are growing in the right way.

    How Deep Do Tomato Roots Grow?

    So, how deep do tomato roots grow? The depth of your roots depends on the type of soil you are planting in. 

    In most cases, tomato roots will grow between two to three feet. It is important to know just how deep you need to plant your tomato roots so that you can ensure that the soil is prepared correctly before planting.

    Here are some of the types of soil you can plant your tomatoes in.

    Type 1: Loam soils

    These types of soil are composed of loam and sand, with low clay content. These soils are good for growing root crops such as beans, carrots, and lettuce. The rich, organic matter in loam soil will help your tomatoes grow large and flavorful.

    Loam soil is great for holding moisture while still providing proper drainage. It works well for a variety of plants.

    Type 2: Sandy soils

    Sandy soils are made up of gritty textures including sand and gravel, often with high sand content. These soils are pracical for growing root vegetables and herbs native to the Mediterranean. Tomatoes can grow in sandy soil that is slightly acidic. 

    Type 3: Clay soils

    These types of soil are composed of very fine mineral particles, with high clay content. Clay soil provides tomatoes with important nutrients to grow strong and healthy. However, clay soil can be heavy so it is best to mix it with another type of soil.

    Type 4: Peat soils

    Peat soil is made from organic materials that have been decomposed. They are good for growing root crops such as parsnips, turnips, radishes, beetroot, carrots, and potatoes. Peat moss can be a particularly great option for growing tomatoes. 

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    Growing Tomatoes

    As we have seen above, tomato roots are deep and need at least two to three feet. They can be grown in a variety of soils including loam, peat, clay, and sand. Planting tomatoes requires proper soil preparation and spacing.

    This is especially true if you want to get a yield of 10-20 pounds per plant.  In this case, you need to make sure that your soil has plenty of nutrients for the plants to grow well and that there is ample space between each plant.

    We have some great tips on how to prepare the soil and planting depth for your tomatoes.

    • If you are having trouble with your soil, then you may need to add compost or topsoil to it.
    • You should also make sure that your soil is well-drained. This means that you should not have standing water in your planting area. If you are unsure if the soil is well-drained, then you can test it by putting a small bucket in your planting area. If water drains out of the bucket quickly, then your soil is good for planting. If it does not drain, then you should add more compost or topsoil to your planting area.
    • If you are planting in pots, then you will need to make sure that your pot is at least two feet deep.
    • If you are planting directly in the ground, then you will need to make sure that you are planting a full 2/3 of the plant underground. This depth will give your plants plenty of room to grow and get bigger.
    • You should also make sure that you use fertilizer on your plants. 
    • If you want to plant your tomatoes indoors, then you will need to make sure that you keep your plant area at a temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. 
    • You will also want to make sure that you water your plants thoroughly. Watering your plants thoroughly will help your plants to get bigger and produce more tomatoes.
    How deep should a raised garden bed be for tomatoes

    In Conclusion – How Deep Do Tomato Roots Grow?

    It is important to know deep do tomato roots grow before you get planting. The depth of tomato plants is generally between two to three feet. Different soils can be used and again even the type matters. 

    Read more about Timber Grow Lights For Plants – Grow Light Info.

    FAQs

    How deep and wide do tomato roots grow?

    The roots can reach a depth of two to three feet, with lateral roots reaching up to two feet. In the field, they grow as a network of fine roots that are used to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.

    Is 12 inches deep enough for tomatoes?

    You should provide tomato plants with at least two to three feet of depth to provide them plenty of room to grow.

    How deep should a raised garden bed be for tomatoes?

    The depth of the raised garden bed should be at least 12 inches deep.

    How deep do cherry tomato roots grow?

    Cherry tomatoes roots will grow to be around two feet deep.

  • How To Use Ph Up And Down In Hydroponics – The Perfect Adjustment

    How To Use Ph Up And Down In Hydroponics – The Perfect Adjustment

    When it comes to hydroponics, learning how to use pH up and down is essential to maintaining healthy plants throughout their growing process.

    The pH is one of the most important aspects to consider when growing your plants. It can be used to determine the overall health of the plants. If your water has a high pH, it can mean that you are having trouble keeping your roots healthy.

    There are many reasons why your pH may be off. Your tap water could have a higher pH than normal, which is due to the alkalinity of the water.

    What Does pH Mean?

    pH is a measure of acidity or alkalinity in an aqueous solution and can be expressed as a number from 0 to 14. A pH between 7 and 8 is considered neutral (or neither acidic nor alkaline). The lower the pH, the more acidic the solution is, and the higher the pH, the more alkaline the solution is.

    In hydroponics, you want your nutrient solution to be around 5 or 6 pH.  Your plants need the proper balance of nutrients and minerals to grow optimally. If the pH is too high or too low, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies and disease.

    How Do pH Up And Down In Hydroponics?

    1. Buying pH Up and Down

    Many gardening stores and online retailers sell a product called pH Up and Down. It features two bottles of liquid, one for increasing pH levels and one for decreasing pH levels. This product allows you to adjust the pH levels for your plants by adding base or acid.

    After testing your water or soil, you can add either a small amount of base or acid. Add just one drop at a time before you achieve your desired pH levels. Be sure to thoroughly read the instructions before using.

    2. The easiest way is to use a pH meter

    A pH meter is an easy-to-use, inexpensive tool that helps you determine the exact pH of your nutrient solution.  You simply add the meter to the water or soil you are testing and follow the instructions on the label. The meter will tell you the exact pH of the solution.

    You can find pH meters online, in superstores, and in most gardening centers. They are generally easy to use and efficient.

    3. Another option is to use an inexpensive aquarium pH controller

    These are available in stores or online. They are easy to use and work well for small systems. They come with a built-in pH meter. They not only monitor but also control the pH level of water.

    You will need to calibrate them every once in a while.  You can do this by adding some water with a known pH to the tank and then adding the controller.

    4. Another option is to use a soil pH indicator

    These are available at most garden centers or online. They are very cheap and work well for small systems. It works by inserting a small strips into the solution. 

    The strip will then indicate the pH level of your soil. The colors of the strip will indicate the pH level of your soil after testing.

    5. An even better option is to use an auto-pH controller

    An auto-pH controller is an automated pH correction system that automatically monitors and adjusts the pH in your solution. These controllers can be purchased from most hydroponic supply stores. They are very easy to use, require no maintenance, and will make sure you have a perfect pH in your solution every time.

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    How Do I Keep My Hydroponic Plants Happy?

    Keep your plants healthy with proper nutrition.  Make sure you use a balanced fertilizer that has all the nutrients your plants need.  Use a good-quality liquid fertilizer that will not contain any harmful chemicals. The best way to ensure that your plants get the nutrients they need is to use a nutrient solution that has all the required nutrients in the proper balance.

    One of the most important parts of keeping your plants healthy is to make sure they have enough light.  If you are using a grow light, be sure to adjust it so that it shines on the plants evenly.  Many types of plants need direct, full light to grow at their maximum rate.

    It is also important to keep the hydroponic water temperature for your plants at 65 to 80°F.  If you are growing indoors, make sure that your lights are set on a timer so that the lights turn off and on automatically each day.

    Keep your plants healthy by adding fresh air.  Make sure to open the windows in your grow room as often as possible to provide plenty of fresh air.  If possible, most plants will also benefit from a few hours outside every day.

    In Summary – pH Up And Down

    The ph up and down in hydroponics as we have learned above is essential for the growth of these plants. Hydroponics being a sensitive method to grow plants fast requires the proper growing conditions otherwise the plants will fail.

    ph up and down solution

    FAQs

    How to use ph up and ph down?

    After testing your water or soil, you can add either a small amount of base or acid from your pH up and down kit. Add just one drop at a time before you achieve your desired pH levels. Be sure to thoroughly read the instructions before using pH up and down in your garden.

    What happens if you use ph up and down in the same water?

    In this case, the command ph up will be ignored and the ph down will be executed.

  • A Detailed Guide On What Type Of Fertilizer For Tomatoes

    A Detailed Guide On What Type Of Fertilizer For Tomatoes

    Tomato being a heavy feeder tells us that the plant is a hungry plant that likes to be fed with fertilizer for them to flourish. What type of fertilizer for tomatoes do you think is best considering the fact that tomato is a nutrient-loving plant?

    Tomatoes will thrive well when you supply them with lots of fertilizer or nutrients to grow throughout their season. No matter the type of fertilizer you use (organic or chemical), it can boost the growth and production of tomatoes by providing extra nutrients required for tomato plants to flourish.

    But the question we would like to know and discuss is what type of fertilizer for tomatoes is best? We would also discuss about the best type of fertilizer for container tomatoes.

    What Type Of Fertilizer For Tomatoes? The Ideal NPK Ratio

    When it comes to choosing the ideal fertilizer for tomato plants, go for a fertilizer that has a balanced ratio of the three main elements. These main elements include the regular NPK (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium). So, they should be balanced in a ratio such as 10-10-10.

    Alternatively, you can choose a fertilizer where the middle value (which is phosphorous) is greater than the first number (which is nitrogen). An example is a fertilizer ratio value of 2-3-1.

    What Type Of Fertilizer For Tomatoes? The Ideal NPK Ratio

    Click Here to Get Info About:

    What To Consider Before Deciding The Type Of Fertilizer To Use For Tomatoes

    But one important thing to note when considering what type of fertilizer for tomatoes is to know the status of your soil. Get to know the current nutrient content of your soil and you can know this by simply doing a soil test.

    After testing your soil, the result gotten will determine the type of fertilizer to use. For instance, if your soil is correctly balanced or high in nitrogen, a fertilizer that has a low value of nitrogen should be used. Then the phosphorus value should be higher. An example of this type of fertilizer is 5-10-5 or a 5-10-10 fertilizer mix.

    On the other hand, if the result of your soil test shows it lacks nitrogen or it is a low nitrogen, then a balanced fertilizer such as 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 should be used to prepare the soil of your tomato plant.

    However, if you don’t have the capacity to have a soil test, you can just assume the soil you have is balanced and make use of a higher value of phosphorous tomato plant fertilizer. But make sure the soil has not had any experience of a sickly tomato plant in the past or this may not interfere with your result.

    Another important thing to be aware of when it comes to fertilizing tomato plants is to avoid using too much nitrogen. The results of excess nitrogen supplied to tomato soil usually give rise to lush, green leaves, with very few tomatoes.

    Therefore, if you have experienced the problem stated above (very few tomato yield), then you can consider providing a bit more phosphorous to the plant rather than a balanced tomato fertilizer.

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    Fertilizer For Tomatoes: The Nutrients Needed

    As we have mentioned, tomato requires 3 major nutrients and they are nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. The tomato plant also requires lots of other nutrients apart from the regular NPK as each of these nutrients serves some crucial tasks for plants.

    Let’s briefly look at some details on these major nutrients as well as some other nutrients:

    • Nitrogen: Supplying your tomato with nitrogen fertilizer is important and it will help maintain the leaves of the plant. However, when you use excess nitrogen, the resulting tomato plant usually gives rise to more leaves rather than more tomato fruits. Therefore, you may notice a bushy tomato plant and little tomato fruit yield when you use too much nitrogen.
    • Phosphorus: Another crucial fertilizer needed for the tomato to grow adequately is phosphorous. Phosphorous is required by your tomato plant for the growth of roots and fruits. This nutrient is an essential component for the first phase and last phase of the development of the tomato plant.
    • Potassium: Potassium assists your tomato plant to grow rapidly and produce flowers. It is these flowers that end up turning into fruits.

    So, apart from the major NPK nutrients, tomato plants also require other small nutrients and elements to grow and some of them include calcium, magnesium, zinc, boron, and so on. Let’s look briefly into some of these smaller nutrients.

    • Magnesium: magnesium helps your tomato plant to remain green and it can help enhance the quality of flowers and fruits of your tomato plant.
    • Calcium: calcium can help in producing strong tomato plants. This element will also help in proper root development and leaf development.
    • Boron and Zinc: both boron and zinc can assist in the flowering process and fruit ripening of your tomato plant.

    Best Fertilizer For Tomatoes In Pots – What Type Of Fertilizer For Tomatoes

    You can either use organic or chemical fertilizer for your potted tomato. But here are some nice homemade fertilizers you can use for your container tomatoes:

    1. Fertilizer Containing Nitrogen

    Corn gluten meal, rabbit poo, and manure are great organic homemade nitrogen-containing nutrients or fertilizers you can use for your potted tomato plant.

    1. Fertilizer Containing Phosphorous

    Human urine, kelp meal, sunflower seeds, soya beans, and pumpkin or squash seeds are good fertilizers that is phosphorous-containing that you can use for your potted tomato plant.

    Best Fertilizer For Tomatoes In Pots - What Type Of Fertilizer For Tomatoes
    1. Fertilizer Containing Potassium

    Fertilizer that contains potassium that you can use for your potted tomato plant includes wood ash, banana peels, potato peels, orange peels, sweet potato peels, and cucumber peels.

    Conclusion – What Type Of Fertilizer For Tomatoes

    Tomato plants are heavy feeders so it is important you supply them with some good fertilizer so you can enjoy optimal yield. What type of fertilizer for tomatoes has been discussed here and we have also mentioned some nice fertilizers to use for your potted tomato plants.

    FAQ’s

    What type of fertilizer is needed for tomatoes?

    The type of fertilizer needed by the tomato plant should be a balanced ratio fertilizer that has the three main elements which are nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (NPK). An example of a balanced fertilizer for tomatoes is 10-10-10.

    What can I use to fertilize my tomato plants?

    You can make use of a liquid type of fertilizer like compost or worm casting every 14 days to fertilize your tomato plant.

  • A Guide On How To Give Plants Calcium

    A Guide On How To Give Plants Calcium

    This guide will look at how to give plants calcium and how much fertilizer you should add to your plants as they grow.

    Calcium is an essential element for all plants, as it is important for growth and development in plants. In addition, calcium is also required for is required for structural roles in the cell wall and membranes. It is also involved in cell division.

    How To Give Plants Calcium?

    Calcium is an important nutrient for plants as it is often deficient in soil due to weathering and soil acidity. Calcium is also important for plant growth and development and is essential for seed germination, stem and root elongation, and flowering. The concentration of calcium in some soils is too low to support optimal plant growth.

    What is the best source of calcium for plants?

    Here are two ways how to give plants calcium:

    Cal-Mag

    Calcium can be added to your plants’ water through the use of a calcium product called Cal-Mag. It is highly fortified calcium, magnesium, and iron plant supplement that is designed to correct common deficiencies in the soil. 

    The amount of calcium released from Cal-Mag will depend on how much calcium is available in your soil, how much water you use in your garden, and the amount of calcium that your plants need. You can add Cal-Mag to your plants’ water by following the directions that come with the Cal-Mag. It is ideal for use on lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, fruit, and flowers. 

    A typical dose of Cal-Mag is one teaspoon with one gallon of water. Alternatively, you can add Cal-Mag to your soil or compost. The amount of calcium that needs to be added to the soil or compost will depend on how much calcium is available in the soil and what your plants need.

    Foliar feeding

    Calcium can also be added directly to the plant, in which case it is known as foliar feeding. This is a calcium compound that is applied directly to the leaves of the plant and is absorbed by the plant. The amount of calcium released from foliar feeds will depend on how much calcium is available in the soil, the amount of water used by your plants, and the amount of calcium that your plants need.

    You can apply foliar feeds either with a sprayer. Foliar feeds can be bought at nurseries, but they are also sold through some garden centers.

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    How Do I Know If My Plants Are Getting Enough Calcium?

    If you have read the previous sections of this chapter, you will have already learned how to give plants calcium. There are two ways to check the calcium level in your soil:

    Calcium can be measured using a soil test kit. The kit will tell you the calcium level of your soil and the calcium level of your soil so that you can assess whether or not your plants are getting enough calcium.

    A soil test kit is only as accurate as the information that you give it. If you decide to use a soil test kit, then follow these steps:

    • Find a store that sells soil test kits that can test for calcium levels.
    • Buy one and take it home.
    • Take a few samples of your soil and carefully follow the directions.
    • Put the samples into the soil test kit.
    • Wait for the results.

    Once the results are out, review the calcium levels of the soil to see how much calcium your plants are getting. Soil test kits usually measure other nutrients in the soil as well.

    Be sure to research the calcium needs of your plants. The amount of calcium a plant needs can vary by the type of plant.

    Calcium is often included in fertilizers because it helps strengthen plant roots. This can help plants grow larger and healthier.

    If You Want To Fertilize Your Plants With Calcium, Follow These Steps:

    Choose a fertilizer that has high levels of calcium. Carefully follow the instructions on the fertilizer. If your plants do not seem to be growing as well, try adjusting the pH of the soil or adding more compost.

    Fertilizer is available in many different forms such as granular and liquid. Read the label on the package before purchasing as not every fertilizer can be used for every plant. Follow the directions on the package for use.

    Final Comments: How to Give Plants Calcium

    Calcium is an essential nutrient for healthy plant growth and it’s important to learn how to give plants calcium. Plants absorb calcium from the soil as they grow.

    When plants start to die or are stressed, calcium in the soil may be absorbed by the roots and translocated into the plants.  The amount of calcium available in your soil will determine how much is needed by the plants you are growing.

    Read more about How Much Water Do Peppers Need? 

    FAQs

    What is the best source of calcium for plants?

    Plants need calcium to develop and grow. It is an essential element for all plants for structural roles in the cell wall and membranes. It is also involved in cell division.

    How do I feed my plant’s calcium?

    Feeding your plants calcium is easy and can be done through fertilizer, a foliar spray or through foliar feeding. Calcium is a major component of the cell walls of leaf tissues, so when calcium is present in the cell, there are fewer spaces for pathogenic organisms to enter and cause disease. Calcium also has other benefits, such as increasing the rate of photosynthesis, improving fruit quality and increasing the rate of root growth.

    How do you fix calcium deficiency in plants?

    The best way to feed your plants calcium is through foliar feeding. You can use a foliar spray that contains calcium or foliar feeding with calcium-rich fertilizers.

    What can you add to the soil to increase calcium?

    There are many ways to improve calcium availability in the soil, including the use of lime and eggshells. If you have enough calcium in your soil, you won’t need to add more to your soil. However, if your soil is deficient in calcium, you can add it by using a foliar feeding solution containing calcium. You can also apply a calcium-rich fertilizer to your plants.

  • How Much Water Do Peppers Need? – Important Facts!

    How Much Water Do Peppers Need? – Important Facts!

    How much water do peppers need and how often should you water your pepper plants? It is important to know the growing requirements for peppers if you plan on having them in your garden.

    Peppers are a very popular garden plant.  They grow fast, are easy to grow, and taste great!  But when you start to look into the specifics of how to grow peppers, there is a lot of conflicting information. 

    The most common advice for growing peppers is to give them regular watering.  But how much water is that and what about the frequency?  Should you water them once a day, or twice?

    How Much Water Do Peppers Need? 

    When growing peppers, you want to give them regular water. There are a few factors that will influence how often you should water your peppers. They include weather, location, variety, and whether you are growing your pepper plant indoors or outdoors.

    You should water your peppers when the soil is dry.  Water the peppers about once to twice a week, providing about one to two inches of water a week. 

    When the weather is hot, you will need to water your pepper plants more often, such as two to three days a week. If you have been experiencing lots of rainy weather, then you will have to water your peppers less.

    Be careful not to over-water your pepper plants. Too much water can cause wilted leaves and rain rot. In addition, it may also cause sunburned fruit or may cause the leaves to drop.

    When you are ready to harvest, you should cut the peppers off at the stem. The size and color of the pepper will vary on the variety. 

    How often should a pepper plant be watered?

    Growing Peppers: How Much Water Do Peppers Need?

    Growing peppers is easy and most gardeners have been able to grow their peppers.  Here is a step-by-step guide to growing peppers.

    Step 1:  Choose an ideal location

    A sunny location with at least six hours of sunlight is best for growing peppers, but they can also be grown in partial shade.

    Step 2:  Choose the right soil

    Peppers need rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter to provide nutrients and retain moisture. They can grow in all types of soils but do best in soils that are heavier and well-drained.

    Step 3:  Prepare the area

    Dig over the area to remove all weeds.  Ensure the soil is well aerated and has proper drainage.

    Step 4: Add compost

    Tsing compost to grow your peppers is important as it provides nutrients required for your plants.  Compost provides nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium.

    Step 5:  Plant the seedlings

    Make sure that the seedlings are 12 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety.  If you don’t have enough space to plant them, you can try to transplant them from another location. 

    It is recommended that the plants be transplanted when they are about three to four weeks old, when they begin to produce their third set of true leaves,  When planting, make sure that the seedlings are not touching each other and don’t crowd the roots.

    Step 6:  Water the seedlings

    They should be watered regularly until they get about 3-4 inches tall, every few days to daily. After this stage, you can stop watering them and let them dry out for about a week.  

    Step 7:  Fertilize your peppers

    Fertilize your peppers when first transplanting them and then again when they start to bloom. It is a good idea to use a 5-10-10 fertilizer. 

    Step 8:  Harvest your peppers

    When the peppers get to maturity, harvest them by cutting them off the stem. Store them at room temperature for a few days or in the fridge for around a week. 

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    The growth process of peppers is an easy one.  They can be susceptible to pests and diseases but are generally hardy plants to grow. Common pests include aphids, caterpillars, and hornworms.

    They eat the leaves, flowers, and fruits of the plants.  Aphids are small insects, which have green or brown bodies.

    Final Thoughts – How Much Water Do Peppers Need?

    The amount of water that peppers require is about one to two inches of water a week.  The best way to learn how much water do peppers need is to provide your peppers with water around once to twice a week. Peppers are easy to grow and give you a thriving crop if you provide the right growing conditions.

    If you harvest your peppers when they are fully mature, they can last longer and you can harvest more from the same plant.  Be careful not to damage the plant as you harvest the peppers or you will lose the rest of the harvests.  Use a sharp knife or a pair of scissors to cut the pepper from its plant instead of pulling it out.  Happy gardening!

    Read more about Do Zucchini Plants Climb And Require Support? 

    FAQs

    How often should a pepper plant be watered?

    If you have well-drained, loose soil, you should water your plants once to twice a week .

    If you live in a very hot climate, you might need to water more frequently than this. Watering can be done manually by hand or with a soaker hose.

    How do you know if you are overwatering pepper plants?

    The most obvious sign that your peppers are too wet is when they start to rot. If you don’t have a greenhouse or a patio covered area, you can also check your plants by looking at the bottom of the leaves.

    The leaves should be dark green and not droopy. You can also use your finger to gently feel the leaves. If the leaves feel soft and spongy, you need to water your plants more frequently.

    How much water do bell peppers need?

    Peppers need about one to two inches of water a week. They are one of the easiest plants to overwater. It is important to keep your pepper plant roots moist, but not soggy.

    The easiest way to tell if your peppers are getting enough water is to look at their leaves. If they are drooping, then you need to water your plants more frequently. It may take a few days for your peppers to show that they are getting enough water.

    How do I know if my peppers need fertilizer?

    Fertilizer is usually recommended for all types of peppers. When growing peppers, you should fertilize your plants when transplanting and again when they bloom. Peppers have a strong root system and will absorb nutrients from the soil if it is not fertilized.

    Fertilizers can help your peppers grow faster and produce larger fruits. You can use any type of fertilizer that you want as long as it contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

    Do peppers need lots of water?

    Peppers generally only need one to two inches of water a week. If you water them too much, they may start to rot. Peppers also need a lot of sunlight to grow properly.

    During the day, your pepper plants will need at least six hours of sunlight to grow. If you have the right kind of soil and plenty of sunshine, growing peppers should be relatively easy. If you plant them in the fall, they will germinate quickly and will have time to grow before the weather gets cold.