Guide on Enhancing Nitrogen Levels in the Soil

In the world of gardening, choosing the right fertilizer can make a significant difference in the health and growth of plants. Two main types of fertilizers are organic and inorganic, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Organic fertilizers, such as fish emulsion and blood meal, are slow-release, taking days or weeks for nutrients to become available to plants. These fertilizers are carbon-based and derived from living organisms, such as fish or animals. They are less likely to burn existing plants or disappear in the environment compared to inorganic sources. However, organic fertilizers are generally more expensive than their inorganic counterparts by pound or nutrient.

On the other hand, inorganic sources of nitrogen for soil include synthetic fertilizers and ammonium sulfate. These fertilizers can deliver nutrients in liquid form for a rapid increase in nitrogen or in slow-release forms for sustained release over time. Inorganic fertilizers are less expensive than organic and easier to apply, with precise applications being simple.

Plants require nitrogen to build amino acids, proteins, and DNA. Nitrogen is one of the three primary nutrients plants need for growth, the others being phosphorus and potassium. The NPK values on fertilizer packaging indicate the amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the fertilizer.

However, too much nitrogen in soil can cause plants to grow more foliage and less fruits or flowers. A nitrogen deficiency in plants can cause stunted growth and yellowing foliage. Testing soil for nutrients, including nitrogen, can help determine if a nitrogen deficiency is present. DIY soil testing kits are available at garden stores, and professional testing can be done at local extension services or labs.

It can be difficult to calculate the correct amount of organic fertilizer to use, especially for homemade fertilizers like compost. Homemade organic fertilizers may contain weed seeds, which can be undesirable. Organic nitrogen fertilizers, such as compost, manure, and certain legumes, are less likely to burn existing plants or disappear in the environment compared to inorganic sources.

The use of nitrogen fertilizers for plants has a history that dates back to after World War II, with their use significantly increasing until the mid-1980s. Today, understanding the differences between organic and inorganic fertilizers can help gardeners make informed decisions for a healthier and more productive garden.