Watering, Feeding & Nutrients
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is a substance added to soil or water to supply plants with essential nutrients needed for growth. In cannabis cultivation, fertilizer supports healthy development when natural nutrients are insufficient.
What Fertilizer Is
Fertilizer refers to natural or manufactured materials applied to plants or growing media to provide essential nutrients required for normal growth and development. In cannabis cultivation, fertilizers are used to supplement or replace nutrients that may be missing, depleted, or unavailable in the growing medium.
Nutrients Found in Fertilizers
Fertilizers typically contain a combination of macronutrients and micronutrients. The primary macronutrients are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, often displayed as an N-P-K ratio on fertilizer labels. Nitrogen supports leafy growth, phosphorus promotes root development and flowering, and potassium contributes to overall plant strength and metabolic function. Micronutrients, though needed in smaller amounts, are critical for enzyme activity, chlorophyll production, and nutrient transport.
Development of Fertilizers
Historically, fertilizers developed alongside agricultural science as growers learned that soil nutrients were depleted over time. Early fertilizers included composts and animal manures, while modern fertilizers are formulated with precise nutrient ratios to meet specific plant needs. In cannabis cultivation, fertilizers are often tailored to different growth stages, with higher nitrogen levels during vegetative growth and increased phosphorus and potassium during flowering.
How Fertilizers Are Applied and Absorbed
Fertilizers can be delivered in various forms, including dry granules, liquid solutions, and slow-release products. Nutrients from fertilizers must dissolve in water before roots can absorb them, which makes proper watering and moisture levels essential for effective feeding. Factors such as pH balance, root health, and oxygen availability influence whether fertilizer nutrients are accessible or become locked out.
Problems Caused by Improper Fertilizer Use
Improper fertilizer use can lead to deficiencies or toxicities. Underfeeding results in weak growth and pale leaves, while overfeeding can cause nutrient burn, root damage, and reduced yields. Successful fertilizer management involves understanding plant needs, following appropriate feeding schedules, and adjusting based on plant response to maintain healthy, productive cannabis plants.
Related terms:
Nutrient, Macronutrients, Micronutrients, Nutrient Uptake, Nutrient Burn, Nutrient Deficiency, pH Balance, Growing Medium
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