Vegetable Formula Fertilizer 1

First, vegetables

1. Fertilization Principle: The main approach is to use organic fertilizers, supplemented with other types such as multi-component fertilizers, with single-element fertilizers used only when necessary. The primary method is to apply Shiji Fei (a type of slow-release fertilizer), with additional top-dressing as needed.

2. Base Fertilizer: Base fertilizer is applied before or after planting vegetables. It should primarily consist of organic materials, mixed with an appropriate amount of chemical fertilizers. When determining the type and quantity of base fertilizer, several key points should be considered: 1) avoid high concentrations that may harm plants; 2) for nitrogen-based fertilizers, nitrate nitrogen is preferred over ammonia nitrogen; 3) about 70% of the total nitrogen required by crops should be provided through base fertilizer, while 30% is reserved for top-dressing; 4) all phosphorus should be applied as base fertilizer, since vegetables absorb 100% of phosphorus when they take up 100% of nitrogen. However, too much phosphorus in base fertilizer can be harmful. Potassium application is typically 0.8 to 1.4 times the amount required by the vegetable crop.

3. Top-Dressing: This refers to the application of fertilizer after sowing or planting. Top-dressing should be done in appropriate amounts based on the type of vegetable and its growth stage, to meet the nutritional needs at different developmental phases.

The focus of top-dressing varies depending on the type of vegetable: For root or stem development, such as in carrots or onions, the emphasis is on promoting growth during the early stages. For long-growing leafy vegetables like Chinese cabbage or bok choy, top-dressing is most important during the early head formation or bulb development phase, such as in cauliflower. For fruit-bearing vegetables like melons, nightshades (e.g., tomatoes, peppers), and legumes, the focus of top-dressing is on the first female flower or pod development.

4. Foliar Fertilization: This involves applying a fertilizer solution or powder directly onto the leaves, allowing the plant to absorb nutrients through the foliage. It is especially useful when soil conditions are poor, such as when the soil is too wet due to prolonged spring rains. The concentration of the foliar solution varies depending on the crop and environmental conditions, generally ranging from 0.1% to 1%. This method is effective for fertilizers that are easily fixed or leached in the soil, ensuring that plants receive the necessary nutrients even when root absorption is limited.