HOME VEGETABLE GARDENING 
USE OF ARTIFICIAL FERTILIZER 
A ZELL-ROTTED stable manure is unquestionably 
* * the best fertilizer for the garden because it not only 
contains all the elements necessary to sustain plant life 
but also supplies humus— that most essential factor which 
retains moisture. The principal fertilizer elements needed 
to grow good crops of vegetables are Nitrogen, Phosphoric 
Acid, and Potash. One ton of stable manure contains ten. 
five, and ten pounds respectively, of these three. 
Really remarkable results are scored with the help 
of commercial fertilizers, however, where the fertility 
needs of the vegetables to be grown are correctly analyzed. 
A “complete,” high-grade fertilizer should contain 2, 
4, and 5 per cent, respectively of Nitrogen, Phosphoric 
Acid, and Potash. As a general guide, remember that 
Nitrogen favors development of green crops, like lettuce, 
cabbage, etc. Phosphoric Acid stimulates plants that 
ripen fruits, like beans, peas, etc. Potash aids woody 
plants, fleshy fruits, and gives flavor. 
24 
