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Organic Vs. Chemical Fertilizers
The choice of using organic
or chemical fertilizers has become a hot topic for debate among
many gardeners. Increased awareness of the dangers of excess nitrogen
from chemical fertilizers seeping into groundwater has raised concerns
among many that chemical fertilizers should be limited in their
use. Also, some gardeners disapprove of the origins of chemical
fertilizers as byproducts of the weapons industry.
When gardening in the
ground, there are many practical benefits of going organic. For
example, using organic soil amendments, such as compost, help improve
the overall quality of the soil by increasing organic matter and
microbial activity.
When gardening in containers,
however, the choice is not so clear. Organic fertilizers break down
more slowly than chemical ones, which may be a drawback if you want
plants that will grow quickly and put on a big display for a single
season. Also, many organic fertilizers are derived from guano (bird
poop) or fish, and give off a somewhat less than appealing smell
for plants at nose level.
Biologically, plants
cannot tell the difference between a fertilizer derived from a natural
mineral or animal or one made in a laboratory. Whichever you choose,
read the labels carefully so you apply the right amount to keep
your plant happy.
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