Osmocote is a mineral fertilizer that has a complex composition that provides the drug with a prolonged effect. It is used to provide complete nutrition and saturation with useful substances of various plants - indoor or garden. The product is evenly distributed in the soil and, under the influence of liquid, begins to gradually release active substances.
Osmocote has long been successfully used in professional agriculture and floriculture. It is very popular in Europe and has established itself as a highly effective mineral fertilizer. But it must be used strictly according to the instructions, carefully monitoring the dosage regimen.
Chemical formula of granules
The advantage of Osmocote is non-toxicity
.
Now many gardeners buy safe and effective products. The environmental friendliness of the drug is not in last place. Osmocote belongs to the “low” hazard class. Absolutely natural. Harmless to the environment: humans, animals, plants and so on.
And all this thanks to the composition. The composition of the drug Osmokot is formed by several important elements that must be present in fertilizers in order to help the plant become strong, healthy, and for fruit-bearing crops - to ensure decent yield in quantitative and qualitative terms.
Photo of Osmokot fertilizer
Osmokot fertilizer contains:
- magnesium
– promotes proper growth and formation of roots, increases the number of fruits, improving their taste; - potassium
– accelerates the process of photosynthesis, thereby saturating every cell of the plant with oxygen; increases resistance to diseases; - phosphorus
- even affects the genetics of the plant, the formation of new shoots (affects RNA and DNA), increasing frost resistance and drought tolerance; - nitrogen
strengthens the stem of the plant itself, stimulating the formation of shoots.
Attention:
when there is not enough nitrogen in the plant cells, it is useless to wait for a good harvest.
The main chemical elements are listed above. There are additional ones:
copper, boron, zinc, iron, manganese and others.
Safety precautions when working with fertilizer
When working with Osmokot fertilizer, you must adhere to certain rules. Despite the naturalness of the ingredients. You should use gloves, goggles and a respirator to prevent the substance from coming into contact with your skin, eyes or sinuses.
Photo of fertilizer Osmocote Exact Standard High K 8-9M (11-11-18+ME) Osmocote Exact Standard High K
This fertilizer can only be used in dry form; it is not dissolved in water before use, and this is very important. Take the fertilizer out of the package with a spoon or spatula - not with your bare hands! In this case, you need to be careful not to crush the granules.
Important!
Osmokot fertilizer should be stored in a dry, dark and cool place. It is placed so that it is inaccessible to children, animals or birds.
Scope of application
Long-acting fertilizer Osmokot can be used for a wide variety of plant crops. Suitable for almost all plants.
Osmocote is used for:
- enhanced growth and development of the treated crop, since the delivery of nutrients occurs on time;
- prevention against the appearance of rot (due to the absorption and retention of excess moisture by the preparation);
- enhancing the protective properties of the plants themselves;
- increasing productivity.
On a note:
It is good to use Osmocot for treating seedlings and seedlings. The plants will be stronger and produce a good harvest. If these are flower and ornamental crops, then beautiful, long-lasting flowering is guaranteed.
Photo of the appearance of Osmokot fertilizer
Operating principle
In order for plants to receive nutrients in the required quantities, a long-lasting mixture has been created with the ability to control the amount of elements absorbed. To do this, they are enclosed in a special soluble organic shell that allows moisture to pass through. Nutrient components gradually dissolve and are released into the soil.
After the mineral granules fall into the soil, they are affected by the water that is used to water the flowers. The resin shell allows it to pass inside, where it dissolves a small amount of the mixture. Substances are released back into the soil gradually, providing the plant with nutrition for a long time.
Another feature that makes it possible to economically use the microelements of the Osmokot fertilizer - nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus - is the dependence of the supply of nutrition on the ambient temperature.
If the room is warm, the granules release components more intensely. If the temperature decreases, the rate of dissolution and release of NPK slows down. That is, they simply do not come out of the capsule.
Temperature is the only criterion by which nutrients are released into the soil. This indicator is not affected by the quantity or quality of water, the presence or absence of soil microorganisms.
The shell, which consists of a fat-like substance, is decomposed by bacteria after the microelements are consumed.
Types of the drug
There is a whole line of drug Osmocot
. The difference is mainly in the composition of the fertilizer itself, the color and color of the surface layer (shell). The color indicates the duration of action of the drug.
The purple capsules of Osmokot have the most prolonged effect (from 16 to 1.5 years of action).
Next in descending order:
- yellow – from 1 year to 14 months;
- blue - from 8 to 9;
- brown - up to six months;
- red ones have the shortest effect of all - from 3 to 4 months.
Fertilizer Osmocote Operating principle - video
Interesting:
the color difference of Osmokot granules greatly simplifies the choice of fertilizer.
It is necessary to observe the temperature regime. When the temperature exceeds 20 degrees above zero, the effectiveness of the fertilizer in terms of duration of action decreases.
Now briefly about the existing line of fertilizers.
Types of Osmocote and their features
As noted earlier, fertilizer has several varieties. Each of them differs in the concentration of the main components, as well as the composition of the membrane shell. It is the last factor that determines the rate of release of the fertilizer itself from the capsule in which it is enclosed.
So, according to the duration of action, the drug is divided into the following types:
№ | Osmocote type by color | Duration of action |
1. | Red | 3-4 months |
2. | Brown | 5-6 months |
3. | Blue | 8-9 months |
4. | Yellow | From one year to 1 year and 2 months |
5. | Violet | 16-18 months |
There are several more types that have strictly designated indications and features of use:
- Osmokot Start. This is a fertilizer characterized by a short period of action. Used for feeding plants with a long life cycle. It is used as the main fertilizer for crops with a short growing season. The main components of this type are released completely within 6 weeks.
- Osmocote Exact Standard. Contains a high concentration of potassium. It is used for compact growing of plants, or when there is a high concentration of nitrogen in the water used for irrigation. Some varieties of crops with a long life cycle also need large amounts of potassium. This type has 2 subtypes according to the duration of the effect. The first type is valid for 5-6 months, the second – 8-9 months.
- Osmocote Exact in tablet form. Allows you to dose the drug as accurately as possible. The tablet has a conical shape, so it is very easy to use. The weight of each individual capsule is 7.5 g. The duration of the effect is 5-7 months.
- Osmocote Exact Protect. This is a new product in the line of fertilizers. The main secret of the drug lies in the fact that the active substances are covered with a double shell. Due to this, the release of active components occurs at certain intervals. Due to such pauses, nutrients remain in the soil longer. Consequently, the process of nutrition of the root system of the crop is significantly prolonged.
Each of these types of fertilizer is universal, as mentioned earlier. But due to the differences described above, the features of each type in terms of dosage regimen also vary between them. Therefore, each time you need to carefully read the instructions for the drug!
Osmokot fertilizer line
Osmocote Bloom
used for plants growing in flower beds. Can also be used for other crops.
Osmocote Pro
contains an increased amount of nitrogen. Due to this, it is especially recommended for those crops that begin to develop early.
Osmocote Exakt
suitable for a wide variety of crops because it has the most balanced composition. Osmocote exact is a very effective and efficient fertilizer. The drug releases the bulk of the nutrients it contains in the second half of plant growth. The drug contains potassium in large quantities, which affects the result: good yield and flowering.
Osmocote Bloom
works for 2 to 3 months.
Osmocote Pro
is a 2nd generation drug and works from 3 months to six months.
Osmokot Exakt Standard"
- the most proven drug. Belongs to the 3rd generation. This is a classic version in which all trace elements are balanced. This option can be called “classic”.
Osmocote fertilizers: types, application rates
The Osmokot product line includes fertilizers that differ in production time (1-4 generations), duration of action, purpose, composition. The general principle of operation is the same, but the specifics of each brand must be taken into account.
On a note! The table shows the ratio of elements in the NPK complex of each type of fertilizer.
Product brand and composition | Duration of action (months) | Application | Norms | Peculiarities |
Osmocote Bloom 2-3M (Osmocote Bloom/Bloom) 1st generation, NPK (12-7-8) | 2-3 | For annual flowers in flower beds (petunias, begonias, phlox, geraniums), for lawns, as well as flowering indoor plants | Per liter of soil - 2-3 g | Small granules that mix well with soil, once applied per season |
Osmocote PRO 3-4M (Pro), 2nd generation, NPK (11-17-10) | 3-4 | For flowers (annuals, perennials), trees and berry plants in the garden, for indoor flowers (orchids, achimenes and others) | Per liter of nutrient mixture - 2-3 g, 200-300 g per m³ | Increased amount of nitrogen. Used mainly in spring |
Osmocote PRO 5-6M (Osmocote Pro), 2nd generation, NPK (17-11-10) | 5-6 | For flowers in pots (hydrangeas, violets, pelargoniums, phlox, peonies, roses), for fruits (plums, wild strawberries, strawberries), for vegetables (tomatoes, peppers) | 2-3 g per liter of soil or substrate, up to 350 g per m³ | Provides better rooting. Use - in spring, 1 time |
Osmocote Exact Standard 3-4M (Exakt Standard), 3rd generation, NPK (16-9-12) | 3-4 | For container, potted, flower bed, flower and ornamental plants, for fruit and berry crops | For nutrient mixtures: 1.5-2.5 g per liter, before planting - 200-300 g per m³ | For greenhouse plants, when using injectors. Economical consumption. |
Osmocote Exact Standard 5-6M (Exakt Standard), 3rd generation, NPK (16-9-12) | 5-6 | For all greenhouse crops | For substrates: 1.5-2.5 g per liter, before planting in the ground - 200-300 g per m³ | Convenient preparation of nutrient substrate |
Osmocote Exact Hi End 5-6M (Exakt High End), 4th generation, NPK (15-9-12) | 5-6 | For flowers, fruit and berry crops (potted, in containers), annual seedlings | Contribute once. In seedling boxes - 2-3 g per liter, for potted boxes - 3-4 g per liter | Slow release of nutrients. Suitable for greenhouses, greenhouses. Double shell granules |
Osmocote Exact Standard High K 5-6M (Exact Standard High), 3rd generation, NPK (11-11-18) | 5-6 | For garden trees, berry bushes, conifers, cuttings. Suitable for home flowers | Seedlings - 2-3.5 g per liter, in pots - 3-5 g per liter, for perennials (before planting) - 200-350 g per m³ | High percentage of potassium content |
Osmocote Exact Standard High K 8-9M (Exakt Standard High), 3rd generation, NPK (11-11-11) | 8-9 | For flowers of all types, berry bushes, garden crops, cuttings, when growing seedlings | Into the ground. For seedlings - 1.5-2.5 g per liter, for plants in pots and containers - 2.5-4 g per liter, for perennials (before planting) - 150-200 g per m³ | Economical (apply for indoor use once every six months), safe to use |
Osmocote PrePlant 16-18M (Pre Plant), 2nd generation, NPK (17-8-10) magnesium. Chelated: zinc, iron and copper | 16-18 | For conifers, ornamental deciduous trees, shrubs, flowering annuals, lawn grasses, cuttings, seedlings | Once every two years. In holes for seedlings - 350-400 g per m³, in holes for potted seedlings - 25 g per liter, for cuttings - 8 g per liter | Allows you to halve the amount of nitrogen |
Advantages of the drug Osmokot and principle of action
So, the drug Osmocot has a prolonged effect. This is the most basic and distinctive advantage of the product.
Besides this, there are other advantages, for example:
- increasing plant immunity;
- plants acquire protective properties immediately after the first treatment with Osmokot fertilizer;
- does not pollute the environment, is safe for both plants and humans;
- the possibility for the plant to get burned during processing, as well as saline soil, is reduced;
- the granules are firmly fixed in the soil and begin their action almost immediately and the benefits are extended over time;
- The plant is nourished throughout the entire growing season, which gives a noticeable result in the form of abundant flowering or healthy fruits.
OSMOCOTE FERTILIZER FOR THE “LAZY” - video
Another important advantage of working with this particular drug is its independence from weather conditions. From the first application into the soil, the plant will feel reinforced, protected and cared for. A distinctive feature of Osmokot is that it can be used in any weather.
Attention:
The best effect can be obtained by applying it in the spring during the planting process. This will ensure adequate nutrition of the root system throughout the entire season.
Osmokot fertilizer also has the following advantages:
- it is used not only for fruits and vegetables; Osmocote also showed good results when treating indoor plants (for example, in greenhouses, greenhouses).
- the possibility of negative effects resulting from exceeding the dosage is excluded;
- ease of use;
- the process of caring for plants is simplified (one application of fertilizer is enough for the entire period of development);
- operates in all weather conditions;
- and others.
Fertilizers!
Potassium magnesia Potassium monophosphate Urea or urea
Important:
Look carefully at the composition on the package, as there are manufacturers of soil for potted crops who immediately add fertilizer to the composition. It is worth giving preference to this particular mixture.
On the Internet you can read many positive reviews about the results of using Osmokot. Some of them will be given at the end of the article.
Characteristics and composition of Osmokot fertilizer
The drug contains mineral fertilizer, has a complex composition and prolonged action.
The use of Osmocote gives a clearly positive result:
- Plants are fed evenly throughout the growing season and receive a full range of nutrients for 1.5 years.
- The composition contains optimal proportions between the main components, macro- and microelements.
- The development of seedlings and adult specimens is significantly accelerated.
- The process of releasing nutrients begins immediately after the capsule enters the soil.
- Productivity increases, and the ability of plants to resist pests and diseases increases.
The action of “Osmokot” is based on the phenomenon of osmosis, the solvent is water, and the semi-permeable shell is the double organic coating of the capsules. The release of useful substances occurs already during the first watering. This is what makes Osmokot radically different from other long-acting mineral-based fertilizers. Subsequently, the internal membrane swells from water, and the flow of nutritional components evenly flows to the root system.
Upon contact with water, the film begins to allow moisture to pass through, the nutrients dissolve, enter the soil and saturate the roots.
Fertilizer "Osmokot" ensures uniform nutrition of plants throughout the season
Manufacturers produce a whole line of Osmokot drugs. The percentage of components must be indicated on the packaging. This simplifies the process of choosing a product for gardeners.
List of elements contained in the fertilizer:
- nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K);
- boron (B);
- iron (Fe);
- copper (Cu);
- magnesium (Mg);
- molybdenum (Mo);
- zinc (Zn);
- manganese (Mn).
The exact list is on the packaging.
What is the difference between Bazakot and Osmokot fertilizers?
Both types are classified as long-acting agents. The method of application does not differ significantly. Discrepancies can only be in the form of release. “Osmoscot” comes in capsules and pressed granules, “Bazacot” also comes in tablets. Some volumes require the use of about two or three granules. "Bazakot" works for a long time, and "Osmokot" comes in short and long action.
Using “Bazakot” is beneficial for small-volume flower pots
Efficiency of use for plants
There are plants that are very capricious and demanding to care for. For example, these are orchids and other flowers that are sensitive to care. Osmocote is ideal for violets and petunias, since the release of nutrients and beneficial elements occurs gradually.
During growth and development, each plant goes through several separate periods and stages when certain nutrients are needed. When applying this fertilizer, the plant receives all the substances it needs precisely at this stage and in the quantity required. An overdose is not scary.
APPLICATION OF OSMOCOTE FOR AMPLINE FLOWERS - video
As mentioned above, the weather does not have much influence on the result, so such an undesirable phenomenon as “washing out” does not occur. Therefore, the efficiency increases several times.
Plants become strong, beautiful, healthy. Flowering lasts longer than usual, the colors are bright, and the aroma from the flowers is simply magical.
Osmokot is also useful at the seedling stage. Such seedlings take root in a shorter time.
Consumer reviews about the drug
Osmocote is a relatively new fertilizer. But he has already earned an excellent reputation among farmers and flower growers. There are, of course, unsuccessful experiences with its use, but such cases are rather exceptional. This is evidenced by consumer reviews:
- Daria Volkova: “I am engaged in the propagation of flowers for sale. No matter what fertilizer I used, I couldn’t achieve the expected result. But Osmokot became a real lifesaver for me! It strengthens the immunity of plants, stimulates their growth and development. What can I say: thanks to the manufacturer for a quality product!”
- Gennady Kuchkov: “I love growing grapes. This is my whole life’s work, one might say, an integral part of me. 3 years ago I learned about the existence of Osmokot granules. A friend advised me to buy this drug, saying it was a real “bomb”. Indeed, I was surprised by the result: the need to use chemicals to combat diseases and insects has almost completely disappeared. The fruits have become larger. In general, I can confidently recommend the drug to all gardeners.”
- Lyubov N.: “I use Osmocote strictly according to the instructions. I had an unpleasant experience when I wanted to fertilize flowers and speed up their growth by giving a double dose of the mixture. Unfortunately, I couldn’t save the plants. But I noticed that when I started doing everything strictly according to the rules, the flowers began to grow much more actively. And during the flowering period, the entire yard is filled with unusual aromas and a variety of colors. In general, I advise everyone to read the instructions before use.”
- Svetlana: “I use Osmocot to feed phalaenopsis. Sometimes I sprinkle granules directly on top of the soil in a pot, sometimes I use special baskets. I already forgot when I bought other fertilizers for my flowers! I really like that the fertilizer itself is released slowly, so its duration of action increases significantly. And this frees you from spending on other means.”
- Sergey: “At first I had a bad impression of Osmokot. Even after its application, the chlorotic plants remained lethargic. To be honest, I thought I would have to recycle them. But around the second half of May, they suddenly began to turn green and their stems began to grow stronger. I admit, I did not expect this. I used the remaining fertilizer to treat other diseased crops - almost all the specimens were saved! Only a few died; apparently, they were no longer in good condition. I am an experienced farmer, but I discovered such miraculous properties for the first time.”
Not only fruiting or flowering, but even the further viability of the plant depends on the choice of fertilizer. Therefore, the problem of feeding cannot be solved carelessly. Osmocote is a nutritional formula that deserves trust, and the above customer reviews are clear proof of this.
How to use Osmocote: general rules
There are many options for applying Osmocot at home. The choice of method is influenced by the type of crop being treated and the type of soil. In most cases (about 80%), fertilizer is mixed with the soil in its pure form or with a ready-made mixture. The resulting mixture must be applied within 2 weeks.
Attention:
The mixture must be sufficiently moistened.
The dosage and application rates of Oscomot are different, depending on the plant being treated.
Interesting article:
The best fertilizers for indoor flowers
When planting ornamental plants in a greenhouse, apply fertilizer directly to the hole and sprinkle the granules with soil. Then the seedling or sprout is immersed, subsequently sprinkled with soil.
Important!
It is necessary to make a layer of soil between the fertilizer and the sprout, since direct contact is not required.
For vegetable and horticultural crops, the preparation is simply placed on the surface of the soil. Digging is welcome. Stir very little and carefully.
Advantages and mechanism of positive action of “Osmokot”
In addition to the long-term effect, there are other advantages of using the Osmokot fertilizer - strengthening the immunity of plants, reducing soil salinity, and no harm to plants and humans. There is no need to wait for suitable weather to work with the drug. Even after a single treatment, the plant begins to actively grow, bloom and bear fruit twice as well. The best effect is achieved when using the product in the spring, when planting is planned.
The product is equally useful for garden and indoor plants, plantings in greenhouses and greenhouses. Stores offer analogues of Osmokot, but the result from their use is very different from what can be obtained using the original product. The only reason why they choose an analogue is a more affordable price.
Dosage and method of application
It is recommended to apply Osmokot fertilizer in the spring. This is the most favorable period. This applies to both adult plants and seedlings. The temperature, as a rule, at this time is suitable.
The dosage of Osmocote depends on:
- type of plant;
- "place of germination";
- period of development in which the culture is located.
The following doses are recommended:
- tall bushes (more than a meter) - no more than 100 grams of substance;
- trees taller than a meter - from 80 to 100 g;
- for roses, juniper and compact bushes - from 10 to 15 g;
- for seedlings, take from 1 to 2 grams of fertilizer per 1 liter of substrate.
How much osmocote is in a teaspoon - video
Attention:
For indoor plants, it is recommended to use only long-acting fertilizers.
The duration of action of the granules directly depends on the amount of fertilizer applied. However, this does not mean:
more is better.
It is always worth following the instructions and observing the consumption rates indicated therein.
When the plants begin the active growth phase, it is necessary to apply the maximum possible dosage. To apply it, it is convenient to use a special tool - a baking powder. It is enough to slightly loosen the top of the soil around the plant and place the granules in them.
Important:
It is not recommended to calculate consumption rates yourself. All specified standards in the instructions have been tested empirically and do not require adjustment.
And yet, when adding Osmocote, you need to take into account the ambient temperature. The higher it is, the fewer granules will be required.
For which crops is it suitable?
The manufacturer indicates that granular additives are used for any crops. They are suitable for shelters, beds, potted plants and seedlings in cassettes.
Fertilize seedlings in containers, flower beds, fruit and ornamental plants. Judging by the reviews of summer residents, in our climate such temperature-sensitive fertilizers give an effect when used on crops in containers, tubs, and pots. Fertilizer promotes plant development, lush, long-lasting flowering, and increased immunity.
Thanks to the use of Osmocote, care in hydroponic installations is simplified and the survival rate of seedlings increases. After transplantation, seedlings adapt well to new conditions, quickly grow, bloom and bear fruit abundantly.
Consumption for certain crops
Depending on a particular type of crop, the following consumption of Osmokot granules is provided (indicated per 1 liter of substrate):
- for tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers from 2 to 4 grams per liter;
- for orchids, tulips and other decorative flowering plants you will need from 4 to 6 grams;
- for fruit-bearing trees - from 20 to 50 g;
- for carrots, cabbage, eggplant – 3g;
- for raspberry, currant bushes and gooseberries – 5 g;
- for pumpkin, potatoes, watermelon – 5 gr.
Dosages must be followed exactly. The best time to apply fertilizing is during the period of active plant growth.
The best fertilizer for roses, hydrangeas and clematis! Fertilizer Osmokot RPO 5-6 m - video
Nutrient ratio
The fastest-acting capsules, designed for 3-4 months, contain 16 mg/g of nitrogen, 9 mg/g of phosphorus and 12 mg/g of potassium. The second fertilizer option, designed for 5-6 months, changes the proportions quite a bit. A little less nitrogen is included - 15 mg/g. The rest of the lineup remains the same. Finally, the third option is the most balanced. That is why it is used in long-lasting capsules. This is 15 mg/g of nitrogen, and 9 mg/g of phosphorus and potassium.
Indoor flowers respond especially well to this fertilizer. Any form presented perfectly protects against potassium starvation, which primarily occurs in potted plants. The gradual migration of beneficial microelements into the soil ensures excellent growth, well-being and flowering, which is not always easy to achieve in indoor conditions. Fertilizer is also used when growing flowers hydroponically. In this case, the capsule turns out to be the only source of nutrition and ensures survival.
Methods of application
Osmocote can be administered in several ways.
Application to the soil
Application directly into the soil substrate, followed by ordinary mixing. This is the simplest and at the same time effective method of application. It is used most often.
The moist substrate must be used within 14 days to prevent the amount of salts in the soil from increasing. You especially need to monitor this when using Osmocote with a short action time.
Application into the hole for planting
Osmokot Exakt is best suited for this method. Add using dispensers. The effect of such fertilizer lasts from 3 to 4 months.
This method of application has several advantages. For example, the risk of moss growing on the potting substrate is reduced.
Attention:
Before planting in the hole, the granules are sprinkled with additional substrate on top to avoid direct contact.
Potting (improved)
The osmocote is placed in the hole on both sides of the planting plant. This way the root system is not in direct contact with the granules. This method is especially recommended for sensitive plants.
These include:
crocus, skimmia, heather, cyclamen.
This method is also good when it is necessary to plant cuttings that have not yet been rooted to their final place of growth. Again, Osmokot Exakt proved to be effective.
Plant growth stimulator:
Zircon preparation
Injection application
The injector is equipment designed for the application of fertilizers in the form of granules for Azalea indica agricultural machinery. Thanks to its use, it is possible to apply the required dose of the product directly to the surface of the growing container in the second year of plant development.
Application to the surface
Surface application is also common. It is convenient to carry it out using a dispenser tube (from 1 to 6 g). You can use a measuring spoon.
Most often, this method of application is used for large diameter pots. To achieve maximum effect, you need to water from above.
On a note:
There is Osmokot Topdress fertilizer, the granules of which stick to the soil and do not crumble if the pot is accidentally turned over.
GOOD TO KNOW!
Epin extra: using fertilizer for indoor plants and spraying various garden crops
Official instructions for use of Osmokot fertilizer
The specifics of using fertilizer depend on which plant needs feeding. There are several ways to use the drug:
- Mixing with soil. The manufacturer recommends applying fertilizer in this way with a short period of action.
- Application directly to crop planting sites. In this case, it is advisable to use the EXAKT variety.
- Injection method. When fertilizing the soil this way, you will need a special device - an injector. It can be used to apply granular fertilizer on top of the soil. This method will be an excellent option for feeding perennial plants.
- Application of granules by surface method. To do this, use a measuring cup or spoon. With this treatment, the crop also needs to be watered from above.
These are the general principles for using Osmokot fertilizer. Now it is worth considering the features of the dosage of the drug for processing different types of crops in more detail.
If safety precautions are not followed, fertilizer poisoning may occur.
Norms and methods of use for indoor plants
When feeding indoor plants growing in pots, you will need from 1.5 to 3 g of fertilizer per 1 liter. The specific dose of the drug will depend on what kind of replenishment is needed - strong, medium or weak. Hence:
- for light feeding, 1.5 g per 1 pot with a capacity of 1 liter is enough;
- for average feeding, take from 2 to 2.5 g of granular product;
- To strongly nourish a houseplant, use no more than 3 g of dry mixture.
It is also worth paying attention to the temperature at which flowers are grown. The higher it is, the lower the dose of Osmocote should be.
Application for orchids
It is recommended to fertilize potted orchids, like other indoor flowers, with Osmocote, carefully adding it to the soil while loosening. The mixture consumption can vary from 1.5 to 4 grams. It all depends on the plant’s need for feeding and temperature conditions.
When transplanting an orchid into open ground, 50-150 g of the drug should be added under the roots. In this case, you need to build on the size of the bush.
How to use it correctly for seedlings?
When picking seedlings into a pot or open soil, it is recommended to add 25 grams of the product to the planting hole. This is a dose intended to treat a 1 liter container. If the pots are larger, the amount of feeding increases.
Best time to process
There is no single correct time limit for introducing Osmokot. It all depends on the life cycle of a particular plant. It is recommended to add fertilizer to the soil during the growing season of the crop - then the effect of fertilizing will be maximum.
Security measures
Despite the fact that Osmocote is a completely natural fertilizer, it is important to take certain precautions when working with it. They are:
- following general hygiene rules (also, you should not keep the drug with food or drink; it is dangerous to eat and drink nearby);
- reliable eye protection from ingress of fertilizer particles;
- mandatory use of a respirator;
- perform work only with gloves.
Important! When using Osmocot, it is strictly unacceptable to have sources of heat or open fire in the immediate vicinity of the bag or packaging with the mixture. No smoking! Otherwise, it may cause an explosion or fire.
If safety precautions are not followed, fertilizer poisoning may occur. The severity and severity of intoxication will directly depend on the volume of mixture vapors entering the respiratory tract.
Pros and cons of Osmocote
• low cost
• availability
• ease of use
• the ability to choose the most optimal type of fertilizer
• high efficiency
• versatility
• no need for frequent use
• economical mixture consumption
the mixture is highly flammable and explosive
work should only be carried out armed with protective equipment
Features of use
Despite the safety of the fertilizer, there is still a possibility of allergic reactions in some people. This may be individual intolerance, allergic reactions.
For this reason, at the very beginning of processing, protect your hands by wearing special gloves, as well as goggles and a respirator to protect the respiratory tract.
Osmocote can be applied 3 times in 1 season if the first feeding occurred in the spring.
Required condition for use:
loosening the top layer of soil and watering. After placing the granules in the holes, watering can be done no earlier than 24 hours later.
Storage rules and periods
When applying fertilizer using a spatula, you should choose a tool made of plastic. It is a soft material and will not damage the fertilizer granules.
Once the package has been opened, it must be tightly closed during storage. Store in a dry place. There should be no other mixtures, food or liquids nearby. The room temperature should not exceed 15 degrees above zero. The storage period is indicated on the packaging.
Osmocote is already popular all over the world. It has only good reviews that confirm its effectiveness. It has no drawbacks, except perhaps the high price. This is a relative disadvantage.
Advantages
If we compare Osmocot with other types of fertilizers, it has a number of advantages:
- avoiding chemical overdose;
- constant availability of nutrients for plants;
- ease of plant care due to a single application of the drug to the soil;
- the most effective proportions of macro and microelements necessary for the plant;
- the ability to apply fertilizer to open ground at any time, regardless of weather conditions.
Osmocote can be used in open and closed ground, for greenhouse and indoor plants. It has an effective effect both when growing vegetables or other garden crops, and in caring for trees, shrubs, flowers or potted plants.
Effect of the drug
The use of fertilizer has a very effective effect on the growing season of any type of plant. The use of the drug has a very beneficial effect on the plants themselves. These claims are based on a number of its positive effects.
- Preventing the appearance and development of rot and putrefactive diseases of the root system. This is achieved by the ability of the drug to absorb and retain excess moisture.
- Active plant vegetation due to timely and most effective nutritional composition.
- Ensuring high yields of agricultural crops and abundant flowering of ornamental plants.
- Pronounced disease resistance.
- High percentage of seedling survival.
Such extensive positive qualities from the use of the drug are explained by the correctly selected composition, which ensures the most effective effect.
Osmokot fertilizer price
You can purchase fertilizer in specialized stores or order it through online sites.
Why is high cost relative? Because in the end, the gardener or florist gets a result that exceeds all his expectations.
The money spent pays off twice. Especially when it comes to fruit crops.
Price Osmocote Exact 50 ml - about 200 rubles.
Approximate prices in stores
Fertilizer for sale is packaged in soft plastic bags with protection from sunlight. The manufacturer supplies the market with the drug in different packaging - 30, 50, 100, 300, 500, 1000 g. The cost is affected by the weight of the package. The larger the packaging, the lower the price per gram of fertilizer.
The approximate price for Osmokot with a duration of 5-6 months weighing 100 grams will be 130 rubles. One kilogram will cost 740 rubles.
A correctly selected long-acting drug and compliance with the instructions for use will allow gardeners to enjoy a flowering and fruit-bearing garden, an abundance of healthy and beautiful plants. With minimal labor costs and the best price, a large harvest is obtained.
Osmocote: reviews on the use of fertilizer
Gardeners and gardeners around the world write positive reviews about Osmokot fertilizer, as well as its varieties.
Anastasia Sergeevna, Jaffa I am a florist with extensive experience. Since childhood, there have been many flowers around me and they were all well-groomed and beautiful. Those that bloomed smelled pleasant. I have a whole greenhouse at home with a wide variety of plants. There are decorative flowering plants and just greenery here, and there are several compact shrubs. Cacti are a must. And all this “economy” requires care. Plants, flowers - like people - each requires its own approach. Osmokot helps me in this regard. I use it 2 times a year, taking into account the duration of the product’s effect. The result: a blooming, fragrant oasis in my home.
Vladimir Tuchkov, Moscow region My wife and I bought a small plot of land to grow some vegetables for ourselves and garden flowers for the eye to admire. We decided not to skimp on feeding and immediately bought Osmokot, since it meets all our requirements. We read a lot of positive reviews. We apply only once in the spring. We are pleased with the result. The yield is high, which covers all costs.
Composition and appearance of the Osmokot fertilizer
Mineral fertilizer "Osmokot" is produced by the company "ICL" in Israel. The company is a leader in the production of new generation fertilizers. The company's specialists extract beneficial substances from Dead Sea minerals and create high-quality products. Osmokot fertilizer is small granules containing useful components for soil and plants in the most effective ratio. The granules are coated with an organic shell consisting of resin. Depending on the variety, fertilizer granules differ in color.
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The composition of the Osmokot fertilizer includes several essential elements necessary for the healthy functioning of the plant:
- Nitrogen. Allows you to make the plant stem strong and affects the formation of shoots. If there is a lack of nitrogen in the plant cells, you can definitely not expect a rich harvest.
- Potassium. Accelerates photosynthesis, saturates cells with oxygen. Potassium increases the plant's immunity, which allows it to better resist disease.
- Phosphorus. Directly affects the DNA and RNA of the plant, increases resistance to frost and drought.
- Magnesium. Correctly forms the root system of the plant, increases productivity and taste.
In addition to the main components, fertilizers also contain additional ones, depending on the type and purpose of the packaging component.
These elements are contained in different proportions depending on the type of “Osmocote”:
- iron;
- copper;
- zinc;
- manganese;
- boron