Just 3 Starter Fertilizer Facts Every Pro Should Know!

What is Starter Fertilizer?

Starter fertilizer is a fertilizer that is applied to the soil at the time of planting. It provides a boost of nutrients to the young plant, helping it to get off to a strong start. Starter fertilizers typically contain high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which are essential for plant growth.

Why Use Starter Fertilizer?

There are many benefits to using starter fertilizer. It can help to:

• Increase plant growth and yields
• Improve root development
• Reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies
• Make plants more resistant to pests and diseases

How to Use Starter Fertilizer

Starter fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions. The rate of application will vary depending on the type of fertilizer and the crop being grown. Generally, starter fertilizer is applied at a rate of 1-2 pounds per 100 square feet.

Application Tips

• Apply starter fertilizer in a band along the row where the seeds will be planted.
• Water the fertilizer in well.
• Do not apply starter fertilizer too close to the seeds, as this could burn the roots.

Starter Fertilizer Options for different plants

Vegetable Plants

• Tomatoes: 10-20-10 NPK ratio
• Peppers: 15-15-15 NPK ratio
• Cucumbers: 10-20-10 NPK ratio
• Squash: 10-20-10 NPK ratio

Flowering Plants

• Roses: 10-10-10 NPK ratio
• Marigolds: 5-10-5 NPK ratio
• Petunias: 10-10-10 NPK ratio
• Impatiens: 10-10-10 NPK ratio

Trees and Shrubs

• Deciduous trees: 10-10-10 NPK ratio
• Evergreen trees: 5-10-5 NPK ratio
• Shrubs: 10-10-10 NPK ratio

Turfgrass

• Cool-season grasses: 15-5-10 NPK ratio
• Warm-season grasses: 10-10-10 NPK ratio

Starter Fertilizer FAQs

• When should I apply starter fertilizer? Starter fertilizer should be applied at the time of planting.
• How much starter fertilizer should I apply? The rate of application will vary depending on the type of fertilizer and the crop being grown. Generally, starter fertilizer is applied at a rate of 1-2 pounds per 100 square feet.
• How do I apply starter fertilizer? Starter fertilizer should be applied in a band along the row where the seeds will be planted. Water the fertilizer in well.
• What are the benefits of using starter fertilizer? Starter fertilizer can help to increase plant growth and yields, improve root development, reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies, and make plants more resistant to pests and diseases.
• Can I use starter fertilizer on all plants? Yes, starter fertilizer can be used on all plants. However, it is important to choose a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for the type of plant you are growing.

Conclusion

Starter fertilizer is a great way to give your plants a boost of nutrients and help them get off to a strong start. By following the tips above, you can use starter fertilizer to help your plants thrive.