Types

• Gardeners can chose from two types of fertilizers: organic or natural fertilizer and inorganic or synthetic fertilizer. Organic fertilizers are composed of natural ingredients derived from plant or animal sources, whereas inorganic fertilizers are manufactured from nonliving sources. Natural fertilizers, like composted manure, are better for the long-term overall health of soil, while synthetic fertilizers are fast acting, producing improved plant growth in one to two weeks.
  
  

Assessment

• Before using any fertilizer, first have garden soil tested. Local agricultural universities often provide this service for a small fee. Once soil composition is established, select the most appropriate for your garden. Amounts of N-P-K are listed as 5-10-5 or 8-0-24 on commercial fertilizers. These numbers indicate the percentage of each macronutrient included; for example, 5-10-5 fertilizer contains 5 percent nitrogen, 10 percent phosphorus and 5 percent potassium.
  
  

Other Considerations

• Always follow fertilizer instructions carefully. The most common mistake gardeners make when using fertilizers is to over fertilize, which can be harmful to the environment and may burn your plants.