complete fertilizer

American  

noun

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

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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

The so-called "complete" fertilizer that supplies some nitrogen with the two other plant-constituents.

From Crops and Methods for Soil Improvement by Agee, Alva

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)

A ton per acre of high-grade, complete fertilizer is not too much, if moisture can be supplied.

From Farm Gardening with Hints on Cheap Manuring Quick Cash Crops and How to Grow Them by Anonymous