Liebig’s minimum law about fertilizing plants

The same scientist also popularized the minimum law, also called Liebig’s minimum law or minimum factor. But it was published in 1829 by another scientist named Carl Sprengel. Carl Sprengel realized that plants need 12 minerals for their growth and cannot grow if one of these substances is completely missing. If a substance is only present in small quantities, the plant will also grow poorly. Finally, Justus von Liebig’s minimum law shows the connection between the growth of plants and the factors that influence it. The growth of plants is determined by the most scarce resource available. This resource is also known as the minimum factor. It can be nutrients, but also water and light. The minimum factor is the limiting element that influences the entire growth of the plant, regardless of whether all other required resources are available.

The minimum law: example with NPK -Fertilizer

A plant is in a place where there is not enough light and has met 70% of its nutrient needs. Fertilizer is now added and the plant reaches 100% of its nutrient requirements. However, the plant’s growth does not improve because the minimum factor is light. A plant therefore only develops as far as the scarcest resources allow.

Advantages and disadvantages of NPK -Fertilize

NPK fertilizers are organic or mineral fertilizers that contain the most important nutrients called nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. A big advantage of these fertilizers is that they provide plants with a basic supply that meets their needs. In addition, the appropriate composition promotes fruit formation and the growth of houseplants, vegetable crops, lawns and flowering plants. Long-acting fertilizers provide plants with a long-term supply. A disadvantage of adding fertilizer can be the possibility of it being washed out. Organo-mineral fertilizers contain artificial and natural components – they are more expensive compared to pure organic fertilizer. Overall, the choice of fertilizer depends on many factors, such as the soil type and the needs of the respective plants.

Composition and application of NPK -Fertilize

The three main nutrients nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) are essential for the growth and development of houseplants and promote the formation of leaves, roots and flowers. Natural fertilizers can be of animal or plant origin. They also contain other important nutrients and micronutrients required for the healthy growth of plants. They provide a sustainable option for fertilizing houseplants as they gradually release nutrients and contribute to soil fertility. The application of organic NPK fertilizers should be carried out according to the instructions on the packaging to avoid over-application. Applying liquid fertilizer is easy because it can be easily dosed and strengthens the plants very quickly.