The following are typical fertilizers that can be used to satisfy the nutrient requirements of your garden. If the particular fertilizer is not available, choose a fertilizer close to the prescribed fertilizer and use the Fertilizer Calculator to determine how much nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium the fertilizer you choose applies.

Desired fertilizer ratio - 1:0:4

Example 1. Manufactured Fertilizer: Apply 5-0-20 fertilizer at 1.5 pounds per 100 sq. ft when growth begins in spring and work or water into soil.

Option 1 Characteristics: More readily available for plant uptake, more concentrated form of nutrients, generally less expensive per pound of fertilizer nutrient.

OR

Example 2. Manufactured Fertilizer: Apply 4-0-18 fertilizer at 2 pounds per 100 sq. ft when growth begins in spring and work or water into soil.

OR

Example 3. Natural Organic Fertilizer: Apply 3-0-15 fertilizer at 2.5 pounds per 100 sq. ft when growth begins in spring and work or water into soil.

Option 3 Characteristics: Nutrients released more slowly, can be more expensive if high rates are needed, and can supply organic matter.

Notes:
Approximate conversion of lb of nutrient needed to cups of nutrient needed: Ground limestone (1 lb = 1 1/2 cups); Most complete fertilizers (such as 12-12-12, 1 lb = 2 1/4 cups); Urea (46-0-0, 1 lb = 2 1/2 cups).

It is recommended that compost be applied each year in the fall. For every 10 pounds of leaf/grass compost applied per 100 sq ft of garden area your fertilizer rate can be reduced by 1/10.

Organic matter in your soil is 3.8%. Your soil has an adequate level of organic matter. Annual addition of 2-3" of compost can help maintain soil organic matter and reduce the amount of commercial fertilizer you need to apply. After 3 years rate can be reduced by 1/2.

Your potassium soil test level is low. In addition to the fertilizer suggested above, apply 1/2 lb (1 1/4 cup) 0-0-60 (or 1 lb (2 1/4 cup) 0-0-24) fertilizer per 100 square feet.