10 Natural Fertilizers To Use in Your Garden
Natural fertilizers for the garden are derived from organic sources and provide nutrients to plants in a way that mimics nature's own processes. Here are some common types of natural fertilizers you can use in your garden:
Compost: Compost is made from organic matter such as kitchen scraps, yard waste, and plant materials. It is rich in nutrients and improves soil structure and moisture retention.
Manure: Animal manure, such as cow, horse, or chicken manure, is a valuable source of nutrients for plants. It should be composted or aged before use to prevent burning plants due to high nitrogen content. There are a couple of types of manure that do not need to be aged, Goat, Rabbit and Alpaca. They can be applied directly to the garden and worked into the soil.
Bone Meal: Bone meal is made from ground animal bones and is a good source of phosphorus and calcium, which are important for root development and overall plant growth.
Blood Meal: Blood meal is derived from dried animal blood and is a rich source of nitrogen. It promotes leafy growth and is particularly beneficial for nitrogen-loving plants.
Fish Emulsion: Fish emulsion is a liquid fertilizer made from fish waste. It is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and trace minerals. It is usually diluted with water before application.
Seaweed and Kelp: Seaweed and kelp extracts contain a wide range of nutrients, trace elements, and growth hormones. They promote plant growth, improve soil structure, and enhance plant resistance to stress.
Green Manure: Green manure refers to cover crops, such as clover or alfalfa, that are grown specifically to be turned into the soil to add organic matter and nutrients.
Coffee Grounds: Coffee grounds are a good source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. They can be added directly to the soil or used in compost.
Wood Ash: Wood ash, derived from burned wood, contains potassium and some phosphorus. It can be sprinkled sparingly around alkaline-loving plants, but be cautious as it can raise soil pH.
Worm Castings: Worm castings, also known as vermicompost, are the nutrient-rich waste produced by earthworms. They improve soil fertility, structure, and microbial activity.
When using natural fertilizers, it's important to follow application instructions and avoid excessive use, as it can lead to nutrient imbalances or harm plants. Additionally, consider conducting a soil test to determine any specific nutrient deficiencies in your garden, which can help you choose the right natural fertilizer. Using these natural fertilizers can replace chemical products traditionally used for the last several generations to improve your soil and plant growth.
Check out our Resource Library for printable information sheets to help you with your farm and garden needs. Check back for new information added weekly.
How to Maximize Your Garden Flowers for Beautiful DIY Bouquets
whimsical Flower Garden
Dahlias
Pinching Back to Encourage Plant Growth
One technique that can help you achieve maximum blooms in many cut flower varieties is pinching back. Pinching back involves removing the terminal bud or the tip of a stem, encouraging the plant to branch out and produce more flowers. So let’s talk about which cut flowers you should pinch back to maximize blooms.
Zinnias are popular cut flowers known for their vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms. Pinching back zinnias when they reach about 6 inches in height will help them become bushier and produce more flowers. Pinching back will also prevent them from becoming tall and leggy, ensuring that you have a fuller and more compact plant.
Chrysanthemums are beautiful fall favorites with a wide range of shapes and colors. To encourage more branching and abundant blooms, pinch back the top inch or two of the stems when they reach about 6 to 8 inches in height. Repeat the pinching process every few weeks until mid-summer. This will result in a bushier plant with more flowers.
Dahlias are stunning flowers that come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Pinching back dahlias when they have three to four sets of leaves will promote more lateral growth and a fuller plant. This will lead to an increased number of flower buds and a more abundant display of blooms.
Cosmos are delicate and daisy-like flowers that add a touch of whimsy to any arrangement. Pinching back cosmos when they reach about 12 inches in height will help them branch out and produce more flowers. Pinching back will also prevent them from getting too tall and floppy, ensuring a more compact and robust plant.
Sweet peas are highly fragrant flowers cherished for their charming blossoms. Pinching back sweet peas when they have three to four pairs of leaves will encourage lateral growth and more flower production. By pinching back the growing tips, you'll also prevent the plant from becoming top-heavy and promote a sturdy and bushy plant.
cosmos
when pinching back flowers, it's essential to use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the stems. Also, make sure to remove any spent blooms (dead heading) regularly to redirect the plant's energy towards producing new flowers. For a list of which flowers flourish when pinched visit my info library for a printable chart.
By employing the pinching back technique on these popular cut flowers, you'll be able to maximize the number of blooms and enjoy fuller, more abundant flowers. Giving you plenty to make DIY arrangements. Experiment with pinching back and see how it transforms your garden and floral displays into a masterpiece.
