Fertilizers are materials added to soil or plants to provide necessary nutrients that help in their growth and development. They are widely divided into organic and inorganic (synthetic or chemical) fertilizers, each with its own characteristics and benefits:
ORGANIC FERTILIZERS:
Source: Organic fertilizers are obtained from natural sources, for example plant matter, animal waste, or minerals.
Nutrient Content: They mostly have lower nutrient quantity as compared to inorganic fertilizers, which means they release nutrients bit slow gradually.
Slow Release: Organic fertilizers release nutrients over time as they break down, growing a steady, long-term provision of nutrients to plants.
Soil Structure: They participate to make better soil structure and fertility by promoting microbial activity and organic matter content.
Environmentally Friendly: Organic fertilizers are some times considered more environmental friendly because they are obtained from natural sources and mostly have lower environmental impact.
Nutrient Diversity: They often contain a wast range of nutrients, including micro nutrients, which can take part to overall soil and plant health.
Examples: Compost, manure, bone meal, fish emulsion, and seaweed-based fertilizers are common types of organic fertilizers.
INORGANIC FERTILIZERS:
Source: Inorganic fertilizers are synthesized chemically, typically through industrial processes. They are also known as synthetic or chemical fertilizers.
Nutrient Concentration: Inorganic fertilizers generally have higher nutrient concentrations, providing a quick and concentrated source of nutrients to plants.
Fast Release: They release nutrients quickly, making them suitable for addressing immediate nutrient deficiencies or promoting rapid growth.
Precision: Inorganic fertilizers allow for precise control over nutrient ratios, enabling growers to tailor nutrient applications to specific plant needs.
Solubility: They are highly soluble in water, facilitating efficient nutrient absorption by plants.
Examples: Common inorganic fertilizers include ammonium nitrate, urea, super-phosphate, and potassium chloride.