How to Read Fertilizer NumbersThree prominent numbers on a fertilizer package — known as the NPK value, guaranteed analysis or fertilizer grade — tell you the percentage of available primary macronutrients by weight in the package:Nitrogen (N) content is the first number.Phosphorous (P) content is the second number.Potassium (K) content is the third numberGranular fertilizers deliver food to a plant slowly but have the advantage of longevity.Broadcast applicationThis method, which covers large areas well, is used to apply granular fer­tilizers to lawns or to new beds before they are planted. The broadcast method can be done with a hand-rotary or drop spreader.Top-dress applicationThis technique, which provides nutrients to individual plants such as shrubs and perennials, is done by hand with granular fertilizers. Simply apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, extending to the drip line. For vegetables, place the fertilizer in a strip parallel to the plant­ing row.