What does the fertilizer label "10-25-5" signify?

The fertilizer label "10-25-5" represents the concentrations of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) in the fertilizer. This notation is commonly used in the industry to denote the relative amounts of these three essential nutrients, often referred to as NPK values. The numbers correspond to the percentage by weight of each nutrient in the fertilizer. In this example, it indicates that the fertilizer contains 10% nitrogen, 25% phosphorus, and 5% potassium.

Understanding this label is crucial for farmers and gardeners as it helps them choose the right fertilizer for their specific plant needs. Crops often have varying requirements for these nutrients; for instance, phosphorus is particularly important for root development and flowering, which is reflected in its higher percentage in this formulation. Knowing the NPK ratios ensures that one can provide a balanced supply of nutrients to promote healthy plant growth.