The acidity of the soil is decreased by applying limestone. The phosphate and potash carry the phosphorous and potassium respectively, but are not pure phosphorous and potassium. These elements are inorganic, the form that the roots absorb rather quickly if watered into the soil. These inorganic fertilizers are rocks mined from the subsurface. The other types are organic fertilizers that are derived from a living form that has decomposed.
Organic fertilizers help to improve the texture and water and nutrient-holding ability of the soil.
There are water-soluble fertilizers that must be mixed with water and poured into the root zone. They are good to promote quick growth on young plants. Applying limestone and fertilizer at appropriate rates is vital for gardening success.