I've been an organic gardener for a long time, but I've hit a bit of a snag since I switched to raised beds. Despite using Espoma Garden Tone and my homemade compost, I feel like I'm not fertilizing effectively. The plants seem to be growing slower and are less productive compared to when I was gardening in-ground. I'm wondering if the raised beds drying out quickly is washing away my nitrogen. I'd love to hear what fertilizers you all use and your advice on when and how to apply them!
2 Answers
Sounds like you're really trying to get your raised beds to flourish! If you're struggling with slow growth, it could be that your plants need more nitrogen. Some gardeners swear by alfalfa meal for its nutrient boost, while others find success with dried chicken manure pellets, which have a solid NPK ratio. Just make sure to follow the application instructions for the best results!
Manure might be your best bet! I get bags of goat manure from a local farm, and it works wonders for my plants. It's a natural fertilizer that really helps with growth without being too harsh. Just be sure to compost it a bit before using it directly in your garden!
I've heard good things about alfalfa meal too! It really helps with overall plant health.