Some readers may wonder what the three numbers on a fertiliser package means. For example, 10-10-10.
The answer is simple: The three numbers refer to the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K) in the fertiliser. These three elements - always listed in the same order, NPK - are referred to as macronutrients because plants need them in fairly large (i.e., macro) amounts to thrive. Plants also need many micronutrients, but in much smaller quantities. While synthetic fertilisers often contain just N, P, and K, organic ones, such as fish emulsions and seaweed extracts, contain numerous micronutrients, too.
Flowerpot on fire!In an article by the Associated Press, fire investigators said a fire that destroyed a home in Arizona was caused by a flowerpot taking fire by itself! The container was standing on the home's deck. It spontaneously combusted.
While rare, spontaneous combustion can happen to pots with the right mixture of (fertilised) soil, moisture and heat.
Investigators explained the plastic pot was filled with soil that had become hot after several days of high temperatures and humidity. It ignited on July 8, and winds helped the fire grow and spread to the deck and then to the house.
Just one more thing to worry about in the garden!
