ORGANICS vs. SYNTHETICS
The definition of organic gardening is basically gardening without synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. But organic gardening really means a holistic emphasis on a healthy ecosystem. Organic fertilizer is usually made from natural sources, plant or animal waste, manure, or compost. They can also be processed products with a compost or manure base.
Synthetic fertilizers are chemically manufactured materials containing one or more of the primary nutrients necessary for plant growth: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium and are typically derived from the by-products of the petroleum industry.
The information is vast regarding organic vs. synthetic fertilizers and soil amendments. And there are situations where using traditional fertilizers makes perfect sense. As with many things, proper use in moderation will reduce any adverse effects synthetic fertilizers might cause.
We thought we would outline some of the overall benefits of choosing a natural or organic option in honor of Earth Day.
Organic fertilization supports healthy soil ecology. By definition, with fertilization, we want to enrich the nutrients in the soil. Organic fertilization increases the microbial activity of beneficial bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and nematodes, all components of healthy soil.
Healthy soil requires less water. Soil composed of just 5% Organic matter can reduce water use by 30%
Organic fertilizers are more forgiving and less likely to burn plants than synthetics.
Organically grown foods seem to taste better. Studies show that lower nitrogen levels in organic fertilizer improve the taste of organic fruits and vegetables and increase vitamin C and antioxidant levels.
Synthetic fertilizers feed the plant, not the soil. This leads to quick results, but overuse can cause long-term damage to the earth.
Although synthetic fertilizers are a quick fix for a slow-growing garden; the widespread use of synthetic Fertilizers has adverse effects on soil, including:
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Acidification of the soil.
- Accumulation of toxic elements such as lead and arsenic.
- Damage to the biology of the soil.
- Possible toxicity for humans through ingested foods.
- Toxic runoff into our waterway, causing algae blooms.
