Irrespective of its kind, any fertilizer you purchase comes with the details about the nutrients it has. Majorly features if the NPK ratio, the percentage the product has of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K). A 16- 16- 16 fertilizer for instance has nitrogen 16%, phosphorus 16% and potassium 16%. A 25- 4- 2 formula indicates nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in 25%, 4% and 2% respectively.
All fertilizers have one of these compounds essentially. If any of them is missing, then it will be represented by a zero for instance 12- 0- 0 represents that fertilizer has nitrogen but no potassium and phosphorus. The fertilizer is available in bottled, boxed and bagged form. If you need it in big amount, then there are bins available for it.
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Organic vs. synthetic fertilizers
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Some fertilizers are produced in the lab while others are made from natural sources. Each of them has its own set of pros.
Synthetic fertilizers
Manufactured from chemical sources, they work faster than organic fertilizers and offer nutrients to plants faster, proving to be a great option to help plants in issues from severe nutrient deficiency. These fertilizers are available in dry granules which can be used as dry as well as liquid concentrated which is further diluted with water for use.
Some of the dry granular are also called controlled release fertilizers. They are coated with a permeable substance so that with every watering only a small amount gets out and reaches the soil. According to the product, the nutrient release may last for 3 to 8 months.
However, synthetic fertilizers don’t have any micronutrients, but in majority of the cases, they are usually available in the soil. In case you find some missing, you can choose a fertilizer which offers them.
Organic fertilizers
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Extracted from remains of living organism, organic fertilizers release their nutrients gradually in the soil, rather than getting dissolved in the water. They are broken down by the soil bacteria offering nutrients with decomposition. Because these fertilizers work slowly, they can never kill plants or lawn with too much application. Some manufacturers offer different types of organic products in a single package which others also offer general purpose or special organic NPK fertilizer.
The majorly used soil amendments- manure and compost have nutritive value and are used in organic program. The NPK ratio ranges from 1.5- 5-1 to 3.5 -1-2.
Fertilizers with seaweed is gaining quite fame with gardeners. It offers nutrients in a form instantly accessible by plants. It enhances absorption of minerals present in the soil to boost plant growth.
Sprayed instantly or mixed with water on plants, the organic NPK fertilizers have amazing effects in some days. The plants turn green and have better growth. They become stronger and get well-stemmed.
NPK content is very important for the optimal growth of the crops. Depending on the parent material of the soil, you can pick the right organic fertilizer. Ductor’s fertilizers are organically driven and highly recommended for your soil. They are free of contaminants and rich in organic matter. Click here to learn more about them.
Role of NPK in Organic NPK Fertilizers
Organic fertilizers have different nutrients to nourish the soil and plant in its own manner. The major ingredients of NPK fertilizers in addition to organic matter are Nitrogen, Potassium and Phosphorus. The three are major nutrients and have their own important role for both plant and soil.
Role of Nitrogen (N) for the growth of a plant
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Nitrogen plays a vital role in the growth of a crop or plant. It offers complete build-up of DNA and proteins which a plant needs to grow. Also, it offers the stems and leaves its natural green color. Nitrogen in Organic fertilizers is available in two forms: in mineral form as well as organically bound form. The mineral fertilizers are instantly accessible to the plant and the organically bound form is gradually released because of the degradation by soil life. For efficient nourishment of the plant and soil, Nitrogen is important in the organic fertilizers.
Role of Phosphorus (P) for proper root development
The roots of a plant grow better if the plant receives good amount of phosphate. If the roots can grow better, the plant will pull more water from the soil and develop better. In simple words, phosphate plays a vital role in the growth and development of a plant and especially during its initial growth. If the growth proceeds well in the start, it will lead to better formation of seeds, tuber and root.
Role of Potassium (K) for the quality of the plant
Source: wikipedia.com
Potassium offers firmness of a plant and prevention against fungi and other diseases. It is important for the transportation of nitrogen to the plant. It offers plant protection against cold and drought. Also, it offers better flower and fruit formation. Potassium affects the quality of the crop and also enhances the odor, taste, color and storage life of the plant.
Using organic fertilizers offer homogenous nutritional value to the plant. However, it is important to check the content of the NPK in the fertilizer and use the one needed for your soil accordingly. You can get your soil tested in the lab to know about what minerals it lacks and what it has in surplus. You should go for slow release fertilizers as the nutrients are released slowly and not all at once. Hence, it offers a long lasting impact and a constant supply of nutrients to the soil and the plant. Every fertilizer differs per nutrient released in the soil and the period for which it will be released.
Organic NPK fertilizers keep the soil healthy, alive and add to a sustainable world. So, if you are looking forward to boost the quality and health of your soil and crops, then adding organic fertilizer is the best option. No matter you need it for your personal garden or agriculture or fruit and vegetable cultivation, it is recommended for all such uses.
