The gardener's guide to fertilizers

Getting the right fertilizer could be the difference between a lush, beautiful garden and a brown patch where your plants should be. Here's how to get the right fertilizer for your garden.

• Some fertilizers are formulated for particular plants, such as roses or lawn grass.
• Most fertilizers contain three nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
• Most fertilizers list the ingredients of each of the three ingredients in this order: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. So a 15-30-15 contains 15% nitrogen, 30% phosphorus and 15% potassium.
• An all-purpose fertilizer will probably serve your gardening needs. Use it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• When in doubt, use too little rather than too much, since too much fertilizer can burn plant roots or contribute to unwanted plant growth.

Fertilizer for plants can be liquid or powdered. Liquid fertilizer can be sprayed on leaves or poured onto the roots. Powdered fertilizer needs to be worked into the soil or scatter it on top. Even easier to use are fertilizer stakes, which are inserted into the soil.

• Fertilizer is seldom needed for trees or shrubs (except roses).
• Use sparingly with perennials.
• Most annual flowers and vegetables benefit from regular, light fertilization.
• Plants in containers need more feeding because nutrients wash out during watering.
• If you work in plenty of organic material, such as compost, well-rotted manure and chopped leaves into the soil, you won't need to buy fertilizer.

• Don't dump leftover garden chemicals in the garbage or down the sink. They can contaminate water supplies and otherwise harm the environment.
• Buy small amounts of chemicals and use them completely so there are no leftovers. Share with friends or neighbours.
• Always read the label carefully and follow the disposal recommendations for each individual container. Don't rinse out the container unless the manufacturer specifies that you should.
• When in doubt, check with experts. Your local municipality can tell you how to dispose of lawn and garden chemicals.
• Some have hazardous-waste disposal days. Others have designated sites for dropping off problem refuse.
• Never reuse containers that have been used to store chemicals.

There are three essentials to a great garden: the right tools, spotting weeds and disease and keeping the soil in top condition. With the right fertilizer your soil could be much better for your plants, and help you grow the perfect garden.