Fertilise correctly

If you are looking for a suitable fertiliser, you have the choice between mineral and organic fertilisers. Talking about mineral fertilisers, you often come across the term NPK fertiliser. NPK signifies nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). Nitrogen is needed by plants for growth. Phosphorus strengthens the roots and provides magnificent flowers, leaves, and fruits. Without potassium, the water supply of the plant is disturbed. Using such fertilisers, deficiencies of your plants can be avoided reliably and quickly. Long-term mineral fertilisers in contrast, submit the nutrients more slowly. Reason is that the nutrients are surrounded by a resin cover which decomposes gradually. Organic fertilisers also have a long-term effect. The best known organic fertilisers are compost and horn shavings or meal. Compost, for example, is suitable as nutrition of many bushes and shrubs. Semi-mature compost is especially rich in nitrogen. It should only be applied to the soil surface as it can damage the roots of the plants if worked in too deeply. Mature compost contains only a few nutrients but improves the soil structure. Additionally, special fertilizers for which the nutrient content is tailored to specific plant species, such as roses, are available.

Basically, you should only fertilise in the growing season which begins in February and ends in August. If fertilised longer, the plants can not adequately prepare for their period of rest. They will sprout out new, thin shoots which are sensitive to frost.