The Benefits of Organic Fertilizer

     Organic Fertilizer provides vital nutrients to soil, improving its physical characteristics such as water holding capacity and ease of tillage.Organic Fertilizer These beneficial byproducts of plants and animal wastes, derived from composting and digestion residues, also boost plant growth and build a healthy ecosystem that is resilient to diseases and harsh weather conditions. In addition to nutrient supply, Organic Fertilizers improve overall soil health through the increased presence of microorganisms and the improvement of the soil’s structure.

     Organic materials used as fertilizer are readily available at garden centers, livestock operations and municipal green waste collection sites.organic fertilizer They range in nutrient concentrations and rates of availability to plants, with some having the potential to cause soil burning or leaching when over-applied. These materials are also available as liquid concentrates like fish emulsion and Seaweed Extract that can be mixed with water for application to plants or soil.

     Nitrogen-, phosphorus- and potassium-based organic materials have been widely studied for their effect on crop production and soil quality. These materials have shown to improve soil aeration, water holding capacity and tilth, as well as to increase the amount of carbon in the soil.

     These fertilizers are also known for their ability to provide nutrients to plants in a form that is more easily absorbed than synthetic fertilizers. This is due to their slow release properties and the fact that they are able to imitate the way natural mineral particles move through the soil. This results in improved soil nutrient availability, reduced leaching losses and less environmental impact than conventional fertilizers.

The type of organic material chosen depends on the nutrient needs of your garden and soil test results. For high nitrogen-requiring crops, such as corn (Table 1), use a nitrogen-containing material with rapid nutrient availability. If a plant requires both nitrogen and phosphorus, select a material with moderate nutrient availability.

     If you are using a liquid organic fertilizer, choose one with low salt content to avoid leaf burn and apply according to the product label instructions. Alternatively, make your own manure or compost tea by partially filling a burlap bag with a layer of manure or compost and submerging in warm water for several days. The resulting “tea” can then be sprayed directly on crops or soil.

     A healthy lawn and garden starts with a nutrient-rich soil bed. Start your gardens off right with an OMRI-listed organic mulch or compost like DIY homemade compost, Organic Compost,  Bountiful Earth Humate.

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