A vegetable garden or allotment is not only beautiful to look at, but also provides you with fresh vegetables and fruit all year round. To enjoy a rich harvest, it is important to fertilize the soil regularly and to know which nutrients the plants actually need.
The essential elementary nutrients are summarized under the so-called macronutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Nitrogen promotes vegetative growth, phosphorus supports root development and flower formation, and potassium is important for water absorption and general product quality.
When the soil contains too little of these nutrients, the harvest can lag behind. Fertilizing at the right time and with the right ratio prevents such deficiencies.
Which fertilizer to choose?
Organic and mineral fertilizers can both be used in practice; which one is most suitable depends on soil condition, cultivation plan and personal preference. Organic varieties often provide a slower, gradual nutrient release and contribute to soil structure.
Using Potassium Nitrate
A commonly used mineral fertilizer is potassium nitrate (KNO₃). It contains directly absorbable potassium and nitrate, two macronutrients that plants need in relatively large quantities. Thanks to its high purity, a noticeable effect on crop condition can be achieved with a modest dosage.
Potassium nitrate is usually supplied as a dry powder and can be evenly distributed over the plot by hand. Dissolving in water and then pouring is also possible.
Dosage
Potassium nitrate consists of approximately 13% nitrogen. Guideline: 1 – 1.5 kg nitrogen per 100 m² per season. In practice, this amounts to approximately 10 kg potassium nitrate per 100 m², or 100 g per m². Distribute the product evenly so that no local overconcentration occurs.
Where can I buy potassium nitrate?
Potassium nitrate is available online, including at DutchChems. The product is supplied in technical quality in resealable plastic buckets; check before purchase whether this specification matches your application. You can order directly via: https://www.dutchchems.nl/product/kaliumnitraat/ .