complete fertilizer

American  

noun

1. a fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, the three principal elements required for plant nutrition.

---

Etymology

Origin of complete fertilizer

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

Fertilize: In addition to adding complete fertilizer to the soil, use a soluble fertilizer like fish emulsion around transplants, especially early in the season or if the plants are not thriving.

From Seattle Times • May 5, 2021

For complete fertilizer coverage, cut your application rate in half, then apply evenly in a crisscross manner.

From Time Magazine Archive

We should apply a half ton to the acre of a complete fertilizer, of which any dealer can give you descriptions and prices.

From One Thousand Questions in California Agriculture Answered by Wickson, Edward J. (Edward James)

If you have no stable manure available, what is called by the dealers a "complete fertilizer" for orchard purposes is what you should use and apply it when you work the land for rye.

From One Thousand Questions in California Agriculture Answered by Wickson, Edward J. (Edward James)

I'd like to see a complete fertilizer including nine or ten mineral elements used.

From Northern Nut Growers Association Report of the Proceedings at the 43rd Annual Meeting Rockport, Indiana, August 25, 26 and 27, 1952 by Northern Nut Growers Association