Guess what? 21-7-14 fertilizer can be used on not only lawns but also in gardens! It is also really easy to use, and we’ll teach you how!
This particular fertilizer is great for a variety of plants, including vegetables, flowers, fruits, and grass. The best course of action is to talk to a professional when it comes to the specifics of which plant needs what nutrients, but this is an excellent overall choice! Generally, 21-7-14 fertilizer has been known to improve plant growth and promote better root formation and stronger stems.
When To Use 21-7-14 Fertilizer
For the best results, use this fertilizer while the plants are actively growing. Make sure that you don’t use it during cold weather, as it will kill off any new growth that may appear. It’s also essential to ensure you don’t use this within 2 weeks of your first frost, as it will stunt the plants’ growth.
How To Use 21-7-14 Fertilizer
When it comes to the application of 21-7-14 fertilizer, it will vary depending on what type of plant, tree, or shrub you are applying it to. Make sure you follow the directions on the package for optimal results. The most common ones it is used for are the following:
- Plants
- Trees or shrubs
- Turfgrass
- Lawns
Plants
When you are applying it to plants, you will most commonly create a mixture that will result in a liquid you apply. Follow the directions on the package for mixing, but the most common mixture is 1 part of the product with 12 parts of water. When you apply it, make sure you are applying it directly to each plant leaf for the best results.
Trees or Shrubs
If you fertilize saplings, mature trees, or shrubs, it is best to use the granular form. When applying the granular form, spread it evenly along the base of the trunk or shrub for the best results. The amount of fertilizer will vary depending on the size of the tree or shrub you are applying it to.
For reference, a smaller shrub will take approximately ¼ cup of fertilizer, while a mature tree will require at least ½ cup of fertilizer.
Grass
If you need grass fertilizer but aren’t sure how to apply it, there are a few ways. The easiest way is to use a seed spreader if you have the granular form of 21-7-14 fertilizer. If you can’t make this one happen, you can always use the water mixture and spray it overtop of your lawn.
Turfgrass
We haven’t really talked about whether or not 21-7-14 is a good fertilizer for turf. Surprisingly, they actually recommend 21-7-14 fertilizer for turf for several different reasons. The concentrations of each of the nutrients in the fertilizer create an increased tolerance to disease, drought, and traffic, which are common concerns with turf.
When To Water
It is important to note that when you are applying fertilizer, you will need to make sure your plants and soil are well watered. Water is an important part of applying fertilizer, as it helps break it down into the soil allowing the plants to soak up the nutrients from the products.
For the best results, water your plants or lawn well 1-2 days before you apply the fertilizer. When you apply the fertilizer, water a tiny amount which may count as a sprinkle more than watering. After you have let your plants sit with the fertilizer for at least 24 hours, give them a good watering.
What Do The 3 Numbers Mean On Lawn Fertilizer?
The numbers on lawn fertilizer can be confusing, even on a good day! The 3 numbers on lawn fertilizer stand for the percentage of each of its key ingredients. Typically, the first number is how much nitrogen is in the fertilizer, the second number is the amount of phosphorus, and the third is the amount of potassium.
For example, let’s break down fertilizer with an NPK rating of 21-7-14. Nitrogen has the largest concentration in the fertilizer at 21%, which is 3 times the amount of phosphorus at 7%. The potassium at 14% would still be 2 times more than the phosphorus.
An easy way to think of the N-P-K rating that is best for grass is big-small-small. This just means that grass needs more nitrogen than the other stuff. Let’s go over what exactly each component does for the plants.
Nitrogen
- Produces tender, green, lush grass blades
- Essential for growth of foliage
- Easily flushed through soils
- The yellow-green color and little to no growth mean the grass is nitrogen deficient
Phosphorous
- Quickens the maturity of grass
- Stimulates root growth
- Remains in soil well
- Promoted development of seeds, fruits, and flowers
- If deficient, it will show as slow growth and purplish discoloration on leaves
Potassium
- Helps resist diseases
- Boosts tolerance against changing weather conditions
- Helps with photosynthesis
- Strengthens the cell walls for strong stems
- Flushes from the soil, but not as fast as nitrogen
- Deficiencies will cause weak stems and slow growth
Depending on what your plants, trees, shrubs, gardens, or lawns need, you will be able to find the correct fertilizer accordingly. If you have questions, consult a professional! They will know exactly what type of NPK ratio you need to make the most of your gardening!