Choose the correct fertilizer to keep your garden beautiful.
The fertilizer section at the garden center can be confusing. With more and more organic fertilizers on the market today, it's helpful to know what separates them from synthetic fertilizers. Does this Spark an idea?
Chemical Components
At the molecular level, synthetic and organic fertilizers are exactly the same. Organically derived nitrogen behaves no differently than synthetic nitrogen.
Rate of Release
Synthetic fertilizers are water-soluble. Generally, they release all their nutrients into the soil at once, although ones labeled "timed release" will work more slowly. Organic fertilizers must be broken down by microorganisms in the soil, and therefore release their nutrients over a longer period.
Soil Degradation
Synthetic fertilizers have a high salt content, which kills many beneficial organisms in the soil. Since they are water-soluble, nutrients not immediately used are washed out quickly by rain. Organic fertilizers build soil over time. They break down slowly, increasing the population of microorganisms in soil.
Building Blocks
Synthetic fertilizers are byproducts of the petroleum industry. Organic fertilizers are made from once-living compounds.
Cost
The cost difference between organic and synthetic fertilizers is fairly steep. Look to pay about 20 percent more for organic fertilizers. However, as they are longer-lasting, you will use less over the life of your garden.
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