Understanding Organic Fertilizers

IMG_0179Organic farming can be hard without the right fertilizers to nourish the soil. Most organic fertilizers feed the soil as well as the produce. They sustain living organisms in the soil that make the soil fertile, thus naturally replenishing the soil.

Ease of use

Most farmers presume that organic fertilizers will be harder to use than chemical fertilizers. Both forms, however are equally easy to use. Plant specific organic mixes and general fertilizers like dehydrated cow dung pellets and seaweed liquid are easy to use and spread around the farm.

Dry fertilizers

Composed either of one component like kelp or rock phosphate or a blend of many, dry fertilizers provide an array of nutrients. They can either bought as mixes or can be created according to the specific requirements of the farm.

The best method of application of the dry fertilizer is to broadcast and then rake, so it reaches the top few inches of soil. Also, the fertilizer can be added along with the transplants into the holes.

Liquid fertilizers

The best application method is to spray the plants during the growing season. The roots and leaf pores absorb the food. The best times to spray with a surfactant to ensure absorption are early morning and early evening. A drip irrigation method is also suitable for liquid fertilizers.

Organic fertilizers in essence are not very different from chemical fertilizers in their ease of use, but they nourish the plants and the soil for long term sustenance.