What are The Native Plant Fertilisers? Important Facts!
Natural plant fertilisers are a crucial element in gardening, farming, and landscaping practices. They provide essential nutrients to plants, improve soil health, and promote healthy growth. With the increasing awareness of the harmful effects of chemical fertilisers on the environment, many people are turning to natural alternatives to grow their plants. Using natural plant fertilisers is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective and sustainable.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of natural plant fertilisers, the best fertilisers for different types of plants, and how to make natural plant fertilisers at home. We will also look at the most common fertilisers used in gardening and farming and compare chemical and organic fertilisers. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting, this article will provide you with the information you need to create a healthy, thriving garden bed, container garden, or landscape.
Types of Natural Plant Fertilisers
There are various types of natural plant fertilisers available that can be used to promote plant growth and soil health. Here are some of the most common types of natural plant fertilisers:
A. Compost – Compost is made from decomposed organic matter, such as kitchen waste, leaves, and yard trimmings. It is rich in nutrients and provides a slow-release fertiliser for plants.
B. Manure – Animal manure, such as cow, horse, or chicken manure, is a good source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. However, it should be aged or composted before use to avoid burning plant roots and prevent the spread of pathogens.
C. Bone meal – Bone meal is made from ground animal bones and is an excellent source of phosphorus, which promotes root growth and flower development.
D. Fish emulsion – Fish emulsion is made from fish waste and is a good source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is a fast-acting fertiliser that is easily absorbed by plants.
E. Seaweed – Seaweed is a good source of trace minerals and is rich in nitrogen, potassium, and calcium. It can be used as a foliar spray or added to the soil.
F. Green manure – Green manure is made from cover crops, such as clover or alfalfa, that are grown and then tilled back into the soil to add nutrients and improve soil structure.
G. Vermicompost – Vermicompost is made from worm castings and is rich in nutrients, enzymes, and beneficial microorganisms. It is an excellent source of slow-release fertiliser for plants.
H. Coffee grounds – Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium and can be added to compost or used as a top dressing for plants.
By using a combination of these natural plant fertilisers, gardeners and farmers can create a balanced nutrient profile for their plants and improve soil health.
Best Fertilisers for Different Types of Plants
Different types of plants have varying nutrient requirements, and using the right fertiliser can help them thrive. Here are some of the best fertilisers for different types of plants:
A. Vegetables and herbs – Vegetables and herbs require a balanced fertiliser that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Compost, manure, fish emulsion, and seaweed are all excellent choices for growing healthy vegetables and herbs.
B. Fruit trees – Fruit trees require a fertiliser that is high in phosphorus and potassium to promote fruit development. Bone meal, rock phosphate, and wood ash are all good sources of phosphorus, while kelp meal and greensand are excellent sources of potassium.
C. Lawn – Lawns require a balanced fertiliser that is rich in nitrogen to promote healthy growth. Compost, manure, and grass clippings are all excellent sources of nitrogen for a healthy lawn.
D. Flowers – Flowers require a fertiliser that is high in phosphorus to promote flower development. Bone meal, rock phosphate, and bat guano are all good sources of phosphorus for flowering plants.
E. Microgreens – Microgreens require a fertiliser that is rich in nutrients and can be quickly absorbed by the plant. Fish emulsion, seaweed, and vermicompost are all excellent choices for growing healthy microgreens.
F. Permaculture – Permaculture gardens rely on natural processes to promote plant growth and soil health. Compost, manure, cover crops, and vermicompost are all essential components of a permaculture garden.
G. Hydroponic – Hydroponic systems require a balanced fertiliser that is easily absorbed by the plant. Liquid seaweed, fish emulsion, and hydroponic-specific fertilisers are all good choices for hydroponic systems.
By choosing the right fertiliser for different types of plants, gardeners and farmers can ensure healthy growth, increased yields, and improved soil health.
Homemade Natural Plant Fertilisers
In addition to commercially available natural plant fertilisers, gardeners and farmers can also make their own fertilisers using common household items. Here are some homemade natural plant fertilisers:
A. Epsom salt solution – Epsom salt is a good source of magnesium and can help plants absorb other nutrients more efficiently. Mix 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt in a gallon of water and use it as a foliar spray or soil drench.
B. Banana peel tea – Banana peels are rich in potassium, which is essential for healthy plant growth. To make banana peel tea, soak banana peels in water for several days, then strain the liquid and use it as a fertiliser.
C. Eggshell tea – Eggshells are rich in calcium, which is essential for plant growth and development. To make eggshell tea, crush eggshells and soak them in water for several days, then strain the liquid and use it as a fertiliser.
D. Compost tea – Compost tea is made by steeping compost in water and then straining the liquid. It is rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms, and can be used as a foliar spray or soil drench.
E. Weeds tea – Weeds can be used to make a nutrient-rich fertiliser. To make weeds tea, chop up weeds and soak them in water for several days, then strain the liquid and use it as a fertiliser.
F. Wood ash – Wood ash is rich in potassium and can be added to compost or used as a top dressing for plants. However, it should be used sparingly, as it can raise soil pH levels and affect plant growth.
By making their own natural plant fertilisers, gardeners and farmers can save money and reduce their environmental impact. However, it is important to use homemade fertilisers in moderation and follow proper safety precautions to avoid damaging plant roots or spreading pathogens.
Common Fertilisers Used in Gardening and Farming
Fertilisers are essential for maintaining healthy plants and achieving high crop yields in gardening and farming. There are two main types of fertilisers: chemical fertilisers and organic fertilisers.
- Chemical Fertilisers
Chemical fertilisers are synthetic fertilisers that are manufactured using chemicals and minerals. They are typically high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are the three primary nutrients that plants need for growth.
Chemical fertilisers are popular among farmers and gardeners because they are readily available, easy to use, and can produce quick results. However, they can also have negative environmental impacts if not used properly, such as contaminating water sources and disrupting soil microbiota.
- Organic Fertilisers
Organic fertilisers are made from natural sources such as animal manure, compost, and plant materials. They are typically lower in nutrient content than chemical fertilisers but are also more sustainable and have fewer negative environmental impacts.
Organic fertilisers improve soil health by adding beneficial microorganisms and organic matter, which help to retain moisture and improve soil structure. They can also improve the taste and nutritional value of fruits and vegetables.
- Comparison of Chemical and Organic Fertilisers
There are pros and cons to both chemical and organic fertilisers. Chemical fertilisers are typically more expensive than organic fertilisers and can have negative impacts on the environment if overused.
Organic fertilisers, on the other hand, may take longer to show results and can be more challenging to source and apply. When choosing a fertiliser, it is important to consider factors such as soil type, plant type, and environmental impact.
Organic gardening and farming methods, such as permaculture, container gardening, and hydroponics, are becoming increasingly popular as more people become aware of the benefits of sustainable agriculture.
In conclusion, there are many different types of fertilisers available for gardeners and farmers to use. While chemical fertilisers may produce quick results, they can have negative environmental impacts if not used properly.
Organic fertilisers, on the other hand, are more sustainable and have fewer negative impacts on the environment. By considering the specific needs of their plants and the environmental impacts of their fertilisers, gardeners and farmers can choose the best fertiliser for their needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, natural plant fertilisers are essential for growing healthy plants and crops. There are many different types of natural fertilisers, including organic and homemade options, that gardeners and farmers can use to improve soil health and promote plant growth. When choosing a fertiliser, it is important to consider factors such as plant type, soil type, and environmental impact.
Using natural plant fertilisers is not only beneficial for plant health, but it also helps to promote sustainability and environmental stewardship. By using natural fertilisers and following organic gardening and farming methods, gardeners and farmers can help to create a healthier and more sustainable future.
