Fertilizer Guide for Plants
Quick, practical guidance on common fertilizers and soil amendments used in Malaysia's tropical climate: what they do, when to use them, and how to apply safely.
- See NPK, release type, and whether it's organic or mineral
- Find what each fertilizer is suitable for (leafy, flowering, fruiting, seedlings, containers)
- Learn safe application rates and cautions for pots vs. in-ground
Compost
Decomposed organic matter that improves soil structure, water retention, and microbial life while providing a gentle nutrient supply.
Worm Castings
Vermicompost rich in beneficial microbes and humic substances; excellent for seedling vigor and root health.
Blood Meal
High-nitrogen amendment that promotes leafy growth and green-up.
Bone Meal
Phosphorus-rich amendment supporting roots, buds, and blooms.
Fish Emulsion
Liquid fertilizer that provides quick nitrogen with trace elements; gentle when diluted.
Kelp/Seaweed Extract
Biostimulant supporting stress tolerance, root development, and micro-nutrient supply.
Rock Phosphate
Natural phosphorus source that releases slowly, best in acidic soils and with microbial activity.
Potassium Sulfate (Sulfate of Potash)
Chloride-free potassium source suitable for chloride-sensitive crops; supplies sulfur as well.
Muriate of Potash (Potassium Chloride)
Concentrated potassium source containing chloride; economical but not for chloride-sensitive plants.
Epsom Salt (Magnesium Sulfate)
Provides magnesium and sulfur for chlorophyll production and enzyme function; helps with yellowing between veins (interveinal chlorosis).
Balanced Granular (e.g., 10-10-10)
Balanced NPK fertilizer for general feeding; provides quick nutrient availability.
Controlled-Release (e.g., Osmocote 14-14-14)
Polymer-coated prills that release nutrients over time with temperature and moisture.
Manure (Well-Rotted)
Well-composted animal manure improves soil structure and provides gentle nutrients.
Urea
Highly concentrated nitrogen fertilizer for rapid green growth; economical and common.
Ammonium Sulfate
Nitrogen source that also supplies sulfur and slightly acidifies soils.
Calcium Nitrate
Provides readily available nitrogen and calcium to support cell walls and prevent blossom-end rot.
Triple Superphosphate (TSP)
Concentrated phosphorus source for roots, buds, and blooms.
Diammonium Phosphate (DAP)
High analysis starter fertilizer combining nitrogen and phosphorus.
NPK 15-15-15 Granular
Balanced granular fertilizer commonly sold in nurseries for general garden feeding.
Flowering Booster (High P/K)
Formulations emphasizing phosphorus and potassium to support bud and bloom formation.
Orchid Fertilizer
Specialized soluble fertilizer suited to epiphytes and bark media; used in very dilute solutions.
Citrus & Fruit Tree Fertilizer
Granular blends with extra potassium and micronutrients to support fruiting and evergreen foliage.
Rose Fertilizer
Formulated to support repeat blooming, strong canes, and color in roses.
Lawn Fertilizer
Blends for turf with slow-release nitrogen to promote steady green growth.
Dolomite Lime
Raises soil pH while supplying calcium and magnesium to correct acidity and Mg deficiency.
Agricultural Lime (Calcitic)
Raises soil pH and supplies calcium without magnesium.
Elemental Sulfur
Lowers soil pH gradually via microbial oxidation; used to acidify alkaline soils.
Gypsum (Calcium Sulfate)
Supplies calcium and sulfur and improves structure in sodic soils without changing pH.
Trace Elements Mix
Broad-spectrum micronutrient blend to correct or prevent trace deficiencies.
Iron Chelate (Fe-EDTA/EDDHA)
Corrects iron chlorosis; EDDHA form is effective in alkaline soils, EDTA for neutral to slightly acidic.
Hydroponic Nutrients A+B
Two-part complete nutrient solutions for hydroponics and inert media; designed to prevent precipitation.
General Foliar Fertilizer
Soluble formulations intended for leaf application to quickly correct deficiencies or support growth.
Quick Tips for Tropical Feeding
Warm climates speed growth and salt buildup—prefer lighter, regular feeds.
Water dry pots before fertilizing to reduce burn risk.
Add compost or worm castings regularly to buffer nutrients and improve structure.