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N - P - K

Nitrogen - Phosphorous - Potassium

These minerals are the primary nutrients needed by plants for sustained, vigorous growth and production. Fertilizers, both chemical and natural, are rated by N - P - K format concentrations.

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For example, a 10-10-10 formula contains 10% nitrogen, 10% phosphorous, and 10% potassium. The remaining mixture is filler which helps with the application of the primary nutrients.

For a quick comparison of natural fertilizers, take these values of multiple types of manure:

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Chicken Manure: 1.1 - 0.8 - 0.5

Cow Manure:  0.6 - 0.4 - 0.5

Horse Manure: 0.7 - 0.3 - 0.6

Mealworm Manure: 2.5 - 1.9 - 2.5

Pig Manure: 0.8 - 0.7 - 0.5

Rabbit Manure: 2.4 - 1.4 - 0.6

Sheep Manure: 0.7 - 0.3 - 0.9

Worm Manure: 2.0 - 1.6 - 1.3

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As can clearly be seen, rabbit and worm manure offer superior nutrition for your plants. Additional benefits of these fertilizers include:

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  • No chemical smell

  • Naturally slow-release so as not to "burn" plants​

  • Minimal smell (rabbit; worm castings smell just like dirt, mealworm castings smell a little dusty)

  • Adds texture to the soil

  • Improves aeration of soil

  • Enriches poor soils

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So what does this mean for my plants?

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Nitrogen

Nitrogen helps plants to grow strong and lush. It is essential for photosynthesis - the process by which plants turn light into energy. Think of your vegetable plants: leafy greens need lots of nitrogen to put out those emerald leaves. It's also beneficial as an early fertilizer for young crops that need strong stalks to hold up fruit and veggies they grow as they mature.

Phosphorous

Phosphorous is for plants what Vitamin C is to us. It helps plants with photosynthesis (turning sunlight into energy) and assists in stress tolerance. It is a key component to cell division and by extension, growth. It is good for root growth and encourages larger blooms and more fruit.

Potassium

Potassium helps plants with disease resistance, water management, and to produce protein and sugars. It also helps produce better quality fruit. It is important in the plant's respiratory system, helping with carbon dioxide (CO2) intake. 

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