2024-02-21
npk fertilizer-What Is NPK Fertilizer?
Fact checked by ELIZABETH MACLENNANHow to Use FertilizerThe letters "NPK" on a fertilizer label stand for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, the three primary nutrients plants need to grow. The numbers on the label indicate the ratio (by percentage) of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the fertilizer container.Even if you do not see the letters N-P-K, but you see a set of three numbers, for example, 5-10-5, you can correctly assume it stands for 5% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, and 5% potassium, always in that order. This fertilizer contains 20% nutrients; the remaining 80% is minor nutrients or fillers. Plants need about 16 nutrients; some they get from the air and water, and others are nutrients like iron, calcium, and chlorine from soil.1