Fertilizants

Fertilizants, also known as fertilizers, are substances that are added to soil or plants to supply one or more essential plant nutrients, thereby improving plant growth, yield, and quality. They are crucial for modern agriculture and horticulture, as they help replenish nutrients that are depleted from the soil through crop harvesting or other processes.

There are two main categories of fertilizers: organic and inorganic. Organic fertilizers are derived from natural sources such as animal manure, compost, bone meal, and green manure. These fertilizers not only provide nutrients but also improve soil structure and increase microbial activity. Inorganic fertilizers, on the other hand, are manufactured from mineral sources and typically contain concentrated amounts of specific nutrients. Common inorganic fertilizers include those providing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, often referred to as NPK fertilizers.

The application of fertilizers is essential for ensuring adequate nutrient availability for plant uptake. Different plants have varying nutrient requirements, and soil types can also influence nutrient availability. Therefore, soil testing is often recommended to determine the specific nutrient needs and to avoid over-application, which can lead to environmental problems such as water pollution and eutrophication. Sustainable fertilization practices aim to optimize nutrient use efficiency, minimize losses to the environment, and maintain soil health for long-term productivity.