URBAN PLANTER BOXES

Wondering if your urban garden is thriving? The plants in your planter boxes will give you clear signals about their nutritional health. The most common sign of a nutrient deficiency is discolored leaves. Yellowing leaves, especially on older growth, can indicate a lack of nitrogen. Purple or reddish tints on the undersides of leaves might signal a phosphorus shortage. Stunted growth is another major red flag; if your plants are much smaller than expected for the season, they may be hungry for more food. Pay close attention to flowering and fruiting. A lack of blooms or poorly developed fruits often points to a need for more phosphorus and potassium. To confirm your suspicions, perform a simple soil test. You can buy an affordable kit at any garden center to check the primary nutrient levels (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) and the soil's pH. An incorrect pH can lock up nutrients, making them unavailable to your plants even if they are present in the soil. The solution is a consistent feeding schedule. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer or a slow-release granular formula designed for container vegetables or flowers. Remember, plants in containers need more frequent feeding than those in the ground, as nutrients are quickly washed out with each watering. By observing your plants and testing your soil, you can easily ensure they get the perfect meal for a bountiful harvest.