Fertilizer Terms Guide

pH — pH measures soil acidity or alkalinity. Your soil's pH level determines how well plants are able to draw nutrients they need from the soil. Because soil pH levels tend to change over time, it's important to test it regularly.

Nitrogen — Nitrogen in your soil affects the part of the plant above the ground, especially the green, leafy sections. Correct nitrogen levels promote healthy, green foliage and lawns. Soil nitrogen is easily washed away by rain. For this reason, you should test for nitrogen regularly.

Phosphorus — Phosphorus promotes strong root formation and root system development. Phosphorus also contributes to quicker flower and fruit production by helping protect the plant against disease and poor weather conditions.

Potassium — Seed formation and germination in flowers, fruits and vegetables depend on potassium. Proper potassium levels in your soil will produce better-tasting fruits and vegetables.

Fertilizer — N-P-K

N = Nitrogen — Lawns require a large amount of this to promote growth, color and general vigor. Fertilization using a slow-release, high nitrogen content is important to both warm- and cool-season grasses.

P = Phosphorus — Stimulates early root growth to ensure seedlings develop properly. Freshly seeded lawns require a fertilizer with a high phosphorus content. Also, phosphorus is necessary for proper plant cell division, which results in a strong, healthy and sturdy grass plant.

K = Potassium — Strengthens root structure and increases disease resistance, improving the overall hardiness of grass plants.