Choosing the Right Fertilizer for Gardening

What is the difference between Organic and Synthetic Fertilizers?

Organic fertilizers are made from naturally occurring plant and animal materials. Synthetic fertilizers are made from processed mineral salts that provide the nutrients plants need to grow. Organic fertilizers are often used to improve the quality of soil, while synthetic fertilizers supply nutrients plants need immediately. Organic fertilizers are better for the environment, but synthetic fertilizers are more effective. There are many ways to classify fertilizers, but the three most important ones are based on what type of nutrients the fertilizer provides, how quickly the fertilizer is broken down and applied to plants, and the fertilizer’s source. Some common classifications include the source (natural or synthetic), primary nutrient source and secondary nutrient source(s) and time of application.

Fertilizer Basics

Fertilizers are used to add nutrients to the soil that plants need to grow strong and healthy. As plants take nutrients from the soil they also remove them, which can lead to the soil that is overly depleted of the nutrients needed for healthy plant growth. To maintain soil fertility, it’s important to regularly add nutrients back into the soil, especially as your plants remove them. There are four primary nutrients needed for healthy plant growth: Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium and Calcium. The most common types of fertilizers focus on one of these nutrients, and they are often used in combination with other types of fertilizers to provide the full range of nutrients your plants need. Fertilizers are often broken down into two types organic and synthetic. Organic fertilizers are derived from naturally occurring materials such as animal waste or plant waste, while synthetic fertilizers are made from minerals or salts.

Organic Fertilizers for Gardeners

Most organic fertilizers are broken down by microorganisms (bacteria and fungi), which makes them excellent additions to compost piles. These microorganisms help convert the organic material into nutrients plants can use, and they can be added to soil as they decompose. Manure is a great source of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, and it also contains some calcium. Manure from non-meat animals, such as chicken and horse, is considered organic and is safe to use in gardens. However, manure from meat animals, such as cows and pigs, should not be used in gardens, as it contains pathogens harmful to plants and humans. The bone meal is made from the ground-up bones of animals, and it is high in phosphorus and calcium. It works especially well for flowering plants and is especially useful when growing plants indoors during the winter months. The fish meal is another common organic fertilizer. It is high in nitrogen and potassium, which makes it excellent for growing leafy greens. Granular organic fertilizers are available in many different blends, and they are often a good choice for beginning gardeners who want to slowly introduce more nutrients into their soil. Growers are high-nitrogen fertilizers that are effective when plants are young and actively growing. Blending fertilizers is a good way to provide a balanced diet for plants. To learn more about the different types of fertilizer and how to use them, visit your local gardening store.

Synthetic Fertilizers for Gardeners

Carbonates, such as ammonium carbonate, are quick-release fertilizers that are often used for plants that are growing rapidly, such as lettuce. They provide plants with quick access to nitrogen, and they are water soluble so they can be applied through the water system of a hydroponic growing system. Nitrates are also quick-release fertilizers that are often used for young or fast-growing plants. They provide plants with quick access to nitrogen, and they are often applied through the water system of a hydroponic growing system. Organic and Synthetic fertilizers are good for different stages of growth and different types of plants. If you want to grow a variety of different plants, it might be best to use a combination of both. As with many things, it’s important to carefully read the labels on fertilizer bags to fully understand what you’re getting.

Specific Fertilizer Types for Specific Plants

Corn is a common plant to grow for fertilizer, as it breaks down quickly and helps add nitrogen to the soil. Corn stalks are a common source of compost material, as they break down quickly and provide a quick source of nitrogen. Potatoes are a good source of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. They are often used in compost piles to help break down material quickly and provide good nutrients to the soil. Rice is often used to provide an extra boost of nitrogen to growing plants. It’s also good at suppressing weeds Soybeans are a good source of nitrogen as well as other nutrients such as phosphorus and potassium. They are often used as an alternative to corn. Wheat is often grown as a cover crop, which means it’s planted at the end of the growing season to provide nutrients for the soil. However, it is also a good source of nitrogen and can be used similarly to corn.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fertilizer for your garden can be complicated, especially if you’re not familiar with the different types available. The best option for you will depend on what plants you’re growing, but generally, synthetic fertilizers are best for young, actively growing plants, while organic fertilizers are better for plants in later stages of growth. When you start a new garden or begin a new growing season with your current one, it’s important to think about what nutrients your plants might need. Having the right soil and fertilizer will go a long way in helping your plants grow strong and healthy.