Proper Watering and Fertilizing of Plants Agri-science Mr. Bailey

Introduction Water is an essential ingredient for the growth of any living organism. Living things also need nutrients on a regular basis. In addition to water, plants also need fertilizers for good health and growth. http://www.ehow.com/video_8125914_tomato-plant-care-troubleshooting.html

What are the two basic types of fertilizer? Granular: dissolves gradually and releases nutrients over weeks or months Soluble: dissolves in water for immediate use by the plant

What do the numbers on a fertilizer package mean? They represent the percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N, P, K) in the index. (example: 10% N, 10% P, 10% K)

What is the importance of N, P, and K? See additional handout Goes in your notebook!!!!

What is the purpose of different strengths of fertilizer? Examples: 5-10-10 6-10-4 0-15-30

Purpose of different strengths of fertilizer Designed to meet the different needs of plants Not all plants require the same nutrients Some soils provide more of one major nutrient than others. Fertilizer is used to balance out the differences

What is the proper amount of water to water plants with? Wet the soil in the pot until excess water drains from the bottom Environmental factors affect each plant varies in its water requirements (light, temperature, etc.)

What is the proper amount of water to water plants with? Best to water a plant when the soil becomes slightly dry. Most plants do best if allowed to dry between watering times Over watering of plants is the leading cause of unhealthy plants

Exit Slip Name the two basic types of fertilizer used in Agriculture. Distinguish the nutrients used in fertilizer. Identify what the numbers on a fertilizer bag represent.