When DDT was introduced as a pesticide during the 1940s, it created havoc on the environment. The effect was realized much later and its use was banned, but till then the environment had borne much of the brunt. The similar story unfolds with almost all of the other pesticides and fertilizers. The harmful effect on human health of such fertilizers is on record. Foods grown on inorganic fertilizers retain the chemical compounds even after cooking and so find their way into the body. As such, using organic fertilizers hold enormous potential and day-by-day people are beginning to accept this reality. These types of fertilizers are very safe because they are derived from living things and their byproducts. They are free from any type of chemicals and as such, these are 100% natural. Using organic fertilizers also reduces the harmful impact on the environment, which is teetering on the brink of a major ecological catastrophe. These types of fertilizers also strengthen the plants to ward off many pests and diseases, and even in the long run they do not lose their effectiveness. However, they do have a few drawbacks but these are of minimal consequence. To know more, read the article given below on the advantages and disadvantages of organic fertilizers.
Pros And Cons Of Organic Fertilizers
Advantages
- Organic fertilizers are excellent for the soil. The organic matters in such fertilizers are essential for microorganisms, which build up the soil rich in humus.
- The organic fertilizers release the nutrients in a slow and consistent rate that the plants can utilize. Since the microbes break down the materials, there is little risk of over concentration of any element.
- The plants are provided balanced nutrition because of the presence of a broad range of trace elements.
- Organic fertilizers are safe for all types of plants and there is no danger of burning due to salt concentration.
- Organic matter binds to the soil where the roots can access it. So, it is long lasting as the organic fertilizers do not leach out.
- The fertility level of the soil can be maintained with less work once the healthy soil condition is reached.
- There is also less risk of over stimulation. Organic fertilizers do not lead to exceptional growth, which can lead to a variety of problems. The plants grown on organic fertilizers have a controlled growth.
- Organic fertilizers also make the plants stronger to resist disease and pest attacks. Plants fed on organic fertilizers are also able to resist the advance of weeds and other parasitic plants.
Disadvantages Of Organic Fertilizers
- Organic fertilizers release the nutrients in a slow manner as in some cases the cooler soil temperatures hinder the release of the elements.
- Organic fertilizers are dependent on microorganisms to break down the organic matter. If the soil is deficient in these beneficial microbes then the plants cannot get the full benefits of the organics.
- They are very expensive compared to the same amount of chemical fertilizers.
- Some types of organic fertilizers are difficult to apply in large areas. As a result, they are less convenient.
- Organic fertilizers are difficult to get in some areas and also they may not be available in large quantities. Depending on the locality, the choice and blends of the organic fertilizers may be offered in limited quantity.