NABAT · THE ILLUSTRATED GUIDE

Feed the growth you see.

Light, water and nutrients do different jobs. Learn when feeding helps—and when to look elsewhere.

Watch & understand

Light and nutrients do different jobs

Slow growth is a reason to investigate. Look at light, water and roots before reaching for fertiliser.

How it works NPK means nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Nitrogen supports proteins and chlorophyll, phosphorus helps transfer energy, and potassium helps regulate water balance; plants also need other essential elements.

ENERGY FIRST

Light and fertiliser do different jobs

Leaves make sugars using light, water and carbon dioxide. Fertiliser supplies mineral nutrients; it cannot substitute for enough light.

A moisture check is one part of the decision to feed. Mixing in the next example does not mean every damp plant needs fertiliser.

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Measure, then mix

Follow the measure from bottle to water. The product label sets the dose for its intended use.

How it works Concentration is the amount of product relative to water volume. Both measurements matter: less water with the same dose means a stronger feed.

READ BOTH AMOUNTS

Measure the water first

A dilution connects an amount of product to an amount of water. Start with the water volume you actually need, then calculate the matching product dose from its label.

The tool shows the method, not a recommended dose. Product rates vary; use the instructions on your own fertiliser.

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Build a sensible routine

Watch the diluted feed reach the growing medium, and see what repeated excess can leave behind.

How it works Roots absorb dissolved nutrients from moisture in the mix. Extra salts can make water harder for roots to take up, so stronger feed can cause damage rather than faster growth.

CHECK BEFORE FEEDING

Roots need water and air as well as minerals

Nutrients dissolve in water before roots absorb them. Check moisture and the plant’s condition first; fertiliser is not a treatment for severe dryness or persistently waterlogged roots.

This is a conventional draining pot. Reservoir and hydroponic systems need their own nutrient and water-management instructions.

A little more detail

Do not transfer a soil fertiliser rate directly to hydroponics, or combine products without checking compatibility and their labels. A small measuring tool helps you reproduce a label rate accurately.

From the story to your plant