Every fertilizer bag carries three numbers — N-P-K. Learn to read them and you’ll always pick the right grade for the job.
N, P and K in plain terms
N (nitrogen) grows leaves and shoots. P (phosphorus) builds roots and drives flowering. K (potassium) sizes fruit and improves quality. The numbers are the percentage of each by weight — so 19-19-19 is fully balanced, while 00-50-62 is a pure flowering-and-fruiting grade.
Reading Common Grades
| Grade | Best for | When to use |
|---|---|---|
| 19-19-19 | Balanced growth | Early to mid season |
| 12-61-00 | Rooting & flowering | Transplant, flower initiation |
| 00-50-62 / 00-24-24 | Fruiting & quality | Fruit development |
| 13-00-45 | Ripening & colour | Pre-harvest |
👉 Pro tip: Higher middle/last numbers (P and K) mean a flowering/fruiting grade; a high first number (N) means a growth grade.
Key Takeaways
- N = leaves, P = roots/flowers, K = fruit/quality
- Numbers are % by weight
- Balanced early, high P-K later
- Match the grade to the stage
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Disclaimer: doses are general guidelines. Always adjust to crop, soil test, growth stage and local agronomist advice.