Every gardener strives to get a rich harvest of peppers, but not everyone knows what mistakes in feeding can negatively affect the plants.
The wrong choice of fertilizers can lead to reduced yields and even death of plants.
Nitrogen fertilizers: excess and its consequences
Nitrogen is an essential element for plant growth, but too much can cause problems.
Often, gardeners, trying to speed up the growth of peppers, use excessive nitrogen fertilizers.
This leads to rapid growth of green mass at the expense of fruit formation. The leaves become large and juicy, but the quantity and quality of the fruit decreases.
Too much nitrogen also makes plants more susceptible to diseases and pests.
Fresh Organic Fertilizer: Why It's a Bad Idea
Many people believe that fresh organic fertilizer such as manure or bird droppings is beneficial for plants.
However, fresh organic fertilizer may contain pathogens and weed seeds that can harm peppers.
In addition, such fertilizer often causes burns to the root system due to the high concentration of ammonia. This leads to growth retardation and even death of plants.
High soil acidity: harmful to peppers
Pepper prefers slightly acidic or neutral soil.
The use of fertilizers that increase soil acidity, such as superphosphate or ammonium sulfate, can negatively affect plant development.
High acidity prevents the absorption of nutrients, which leads to a deficiency of microelements and deterioration of the condition of plants.
It is important to check the soil pH regularly and add lime if necessary to neutralize the acidity.
Potassium fertilizers: deficiency and excess
Potassium is important for fruit formation and increasing plant resistance to stressful conditions. However, a deficiency or excess of potassium fertilizers can lead to problems.
Potassium deficiency manifests itself in weak flowering and poor fruit formation.
Excess potassium, in turn, causes a deficiency of magnesium and calcium, which negatively affects the health of plants.
It is important to maintain balance and follow the recommendations for potash fertilizer dosage.
Complex mineral fertilizers: the danger of overdose
Complex mineral fertilizers often contain several nutrients in one formula, which makes them convenient to use.
However, improper use or overdose of such fertilizers can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances in the soil.
This creates a toxic environment for the pepper's root system, slowing its growth and reducing yields.
You should always read the instructions carefully and follow the recommended dosage.
Earlier we told you how to feed garlic right now.