NPK Explained · Feeding Schedule · Organic vs Synthetic
| Letter | Nutrient | Does What | Deficiency Sign |
|---|---|---|---|
| N | Nitrogen | Leaf and stem growth | Yellow lower leaves |
| P | Phosphorus | Roots, flowers, fruit | Purple leaves, poor blooms |
| K | Potassium | Overall health, disease resistance | Brown leaf edges |
A 10-10-10 fertilizer is 10% N, 10% P, 10% K. The rest is filler/carrier.
| Factor | Organic | Synthetic |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Slow release | Fast acting |
| Soil health | Improves over time | No improvement |
| Burn risk | Low | Higher |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Environmental | Better | Runoff concerns |