Fertilisers and NPK! What does NPK stand For?

NPK are the symbols that stand for Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (potash)? A little confusion sometimes because the symbol for Potassium is K and not P. If it were P, then there would be even more confusion, for we would be talking of NPP! (Not helpful).

They are normally applied as balanced - compound - fertilisers or feeds, though they can be bought as specialist single elements. Not for the beginner!

Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P) and Potassium - Potash - (K) are the most important plant foods contained in fertilisers - or in the soil.

N - Nitrogen is probably the most important, and also the one likely to be deficient in garden soils. for it is easily leached out by rain and over-watering. It is important for most plant growth, but in particular for foliage. Without healthy foliage, plants will not thrive. Potatoes, Cauliflower, Beetroot, spinach, Brussels Sprouts, Leeks and Spring Cabbage in particular need plenty of Nitrogen. If the soil is deficient, then the yellowing of leaves is normally the first symptom to show. Growmore is a quick, cheap and easy way to remedy a Nitrogen deficiency in your vegetable plot. Growmore will also have supplies of Phosphorous (P) and Potassium (K).
Nitrogen rich fertilisers or composts should not be applied to your soil in late autumn or winter. Spring is the time for this.

Farmyard manure and good garden compost - dug in or used regularly as a mulch - will also provide these essential elements - but organically!

More here about fertilisers.