Why is it important to water with fertilizer?
Watering with fertilizer is essential to ensure the healthy growth and development of your plants. In this article entitled “How often to water with fertilizer” we will explain everything related to good practices when using fertilizers and fertilizers in cannabis crops.
Fertilizers provide essential nutrients that are not always present in soil or water. Nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are essential for vital plant functions such as photosynthesis and fruit production. Without proper fertilization, plants may show deficiency symptoms such as slow growth or yellowing leaves.
Factors to consider before fertilizing
Type of plant
Each type of plant has specific nutritional needs. For example, flowering and fruit plants require phosphorus-rich fertilizers, while green plants such as ferns benefit from fertilizers high in nitrogen. In addition, some cannabis plants need special attention in the choice of fertilizers and their dosage.
Growth phase
The growth phase of a plant determines the amount and type of fertilizer it needs. During the vegetative growth phase, plants need more nitrogen. However, in the flowering phase, it is important to increase phosphorus and potassium to support flower and fruit formation.
Type of fertilizer
There are organic and inorganic fertilizers, each with their own benefits and applications. Organic fertilizers, such as compost, release nutrients slowly and steadily, while inorganic fertilizers provide nutrients more immediately. Some fertilizers are water-soluble, making them easier to apply.
Environmental conditions
Environmental conditions such as light, temperature, and humidity also influence a plant’s need for fertilization. In warmer climates, plants typically require more frequent fertilization due to increased growth. Additionally, environmental conditions can affect the amount of water needed to dilute and apply fertilizer.
How often to water with fertilizer. Frequency of irrigation with fertilizer
Frequency for indoor plants
Indoor plants typically require less fertilizer than outdoor plants due to their slower growth. Generally, it’s a good idea to fertilize your plants every 4 to 6 weeks during the active growing season, which is usually spring and summer.
Frequency for outdoor plants
Outdoor plants, especially those in gardens and vegetable gardens, may require more frequent fertilization, every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the type of plant and soil quality. It is crucial to adjust the frequency according to the signs each plant shows.
Recommendations for hydroponic crops
In hydroponic crops, where plants are grown in a nutrient solution rather than soil, fertilization must be more precise and frequent. It is essential to follow a weekly fertilization routine to ensure that plants receive the necessary nutrients on a consistent basis.
How do you know if your plant needs more or less fertilizer?
Signs of nutrient deficiency
Nutrient deficiencies manifest themselves in a variety of ways, such as yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or lack of flowering. Each nutrient has specific symptoms; for example, a lack of nitrogen often causes yellow leaves, while a phosphorus deficiency can cause leaves to take on a purple hue.
Symptoms of over fertilization
Too much fertilizer can be just as damaging as too little. Symptoms of over-fertilization include scorched or brown-edged leaves, uncontrolled growth, and salt buildup on the soil surface. It’s critical to adjust the amount of fertilizer to avoid these problems, and keep in mind that overwatering can aggravate these symptoms.
How often to water with fertilizer. Tips for effective irrigation with fertilizer
How to properly dilute fertilizer
Correct fertilizer dilution is key to avoiding over-fertilization. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use measuring tools to ensure proper dilution. For younger plants, it is advisable to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase as needed.
Best practices for the application
It is best to apply fertilizer on moist soil to avoid root burn. Additionally, it is advisable to water the plants after application to help distribute the fertilizer evenly. For foliar fertilizers, it should be applied in the early morning or evening hours to avoid direct sun. It is important to note that the fertilizer watering should be appropriate to the amount of irrigation water that the plants usually receive.
Using measurement tools
Using tools like pH and EC (electrical conductivity) meters can be a great help in adjusting fertilizer dosages. These tools allow you to monitor water quality and nutrient levels, ensuring that plants are getting what they need without overdoing it.
Common mistakes when watering with fertilizer and how to avoid them
Over-fertilizing
The most common mistake is to apply too much fertilizer in the hope of faster growth. This is not only ineffective but can be harmful. The key is moderation and following the recommended dosages.
Not following the manufacturer’s instructions
Each type of fertilizer has specific instructions that must be followed to the letter. Ignoring these instructions can lead to nutrient overdose or deficiency, negatively affecting plant health.
Ignoring the pH of the water
Water pH is a crucial factor in nutrient uptake. Incorrect pH can make certain nutrients less available to plants, even if they are present in the soil or water. It is essential to measure and adjust pH to optimize fertilization.
How often to water with fertilizer – Conclusion
Watering with fertilizer is an essential part of caring for your plants, but it requires attention and knowledge. Always consider the type of plant, its growth phase, and the environmental conditions to adjust the frequency and amount of fertilization. Use measuring tools and follow best practices to ensure that your plants receive the necessary nutrients effectively. For quality fertilizers and expert advice, do not hesitate to visit Growshop Hydroponics Blanes. In the case of marijuana plants, it is especially important to adjust the irrigation with fertilizer according to the specific needs of this plant, using systems such as drip irrigation to ensure an even distribution of nutrients.