Fertilizer is a soil enhancement that encourages healthy plant growth. When used correctly in a vegetable garden, your crops will flourish. This is especially important if you've grown plants in this same garden in past seasons, as prior plant growth can sap the soil of much-needed nutrients. Here are some tips for fertilizing your vegetable garden and reaping a bountiful harvest.

A Brief Guide to Vegetable Garden Fertilizing

1. Apply at the Right Times

Timing is crucial because you want the soil to have the nutrients it needs to support strong plants before the actual planting takes place. Apply fertilizer in the spring prior to planting. 

The soil should be soft and workable, so make sure you are at least a few weeks out from the last frost. Plan to add fertilizer as needed every four to six weeks after planting, being careful to gently work the product into the soil so that you don't disturb any new growth.

2. Read the Label

There are many products on the market, and knowing how to read and make sense of the label will help ensure proper usage. Bags are labeled with a combination of numbers, such as 3-4-4 or 12-12-12. The numbers signify the percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, respectively, in each bag. There are often additional nutrients, like calcium, iron, and magnesium. When starting your vegetable garden, choose a fertilizer labeled 3-4-4 for the best results.

3. Prevent Pollution

These products are chemicals and need to be handled with care so they don't pollute your lawn, water supply, or local environment. If rain is forecast in the 24 hours following your planned planting date, wait until after the rain to fertilize. 

If you spill some product on a driveway or sidewalk, sweep it up and toss it in the trash right away. These precautions will help prevent the chemicals from washing away into storm drains and leaching into groundwater.

Shop for all your gardening essentials at Racine's Feed, Garden & Supply. Since 2001, they have been serving the Robertsdale, AL, area. They sell a comprehensive selection of gardening supplies, livestock feed, and hunting accessories. Visit them online to learn more about their products, and call (251) 947-3003 with questions.