What’s the Deal with Organic Fertilizers?

Think of organic fertilizer as the smoothie of plant food—it’s all-natural, packed with goodness, and makes your plants feel fantastic. Made from things like compost, manure, and plant scraps (basically a buffet of nature’s leftovers), it skips the synthetic stuff that can mess with the environment. Bonus? It’s like giving your soil a day at the spa, improving its structure, fertility, and vibe.

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Using organic fertilizers isn’t just good for your garden; it’s like gifting your veggies a flavor upgrade. Yes, tomatoes with more tomato-ness and carrots so sweet they’ll make you cry. Plus, organic fertilizers can help stop weeds and pests from moving in like unwanted party crashers.

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Now, don’t get too excited and dump a truckload onto your garden. That’s like chugging ten protein shakes—it won’t end well. Follow the directions, sprinkle sparingly, and your plants will thrive like the main character in a gardening drama.

Organic fertilizer isn’t just eco-friendly—it’s plant-friendly, people-friendly, and, dare we say, planet-friendly. So, the next time your soil needs a snack, skip the chemicals and serve up a natural feast. Your garden will thank you with lush, green gratitude—and maybe tastier tomatoes.

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What are Organic Fertilizers?

Organic fertilizer is a type of fertilizer that is made from natural materials, such as manure, compost, and plant waste. It is a good choice for gardeners and farmers who want to avoid using synthetic fertilizers, which can be harmful to the environment.  Organic fertilizers provide a number of benefits to plants. They help to improve soil structure and fertility, and they also help to suppress weeds and pests. Organic fertilizers are also a good source of nutrients for plants, and they can help to improve the taste and quality of fruits and vegetables.​

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Here are some of the benefits of using organic fertilizer:

• Improved soil health. Organic fertilizers help to improve soil structure and fertility. This makes it easier for plants to grow and absorb nutrients.

• Reduced weed growth. Organic fertilizers can help to suppress weeds. This makes it easier to keep your garden or farm clean and free of weeds.

• Improved crop yields. Organic fertilizers can help to improve crop yields. This is because they provide plants with the nutrients they need to grow and produce fruit or vegetables.

• Safe for the environment. Organic fertilizers are safe for the environment. They do not contain any harmful chemicals that can pollute the soil or water.

• Good for the soil. Organic fertilizers are good for the soil. They help to improve soil structure and fertility, and they also help to suppress weeds and pests.

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If you are looking for a safe and environmentally friendly way to fertilize your plants, organic fertilizer is a good option. Examples of naturally occurring organic fertilizers include worm castings, peat, manure, slurry, seaweed, and bat guano.  Naturally occurring minerals such as mine rock phosphate, sulfate of potash, and limestone are also considered Organic Fertilizers.  Green manure crops are also grown to add nutrients to the soil.  Green manures are crops grown specifically for building and maintaining soil fertility and structure, though they may also have other functions. They are normally incorporated back into the soil, either directly, or after removal and composting.  Green manures include legumes such as peas, grasses, beans, clover, oats, rapeseed, beans, winter rye, oats, buckwheat and vetch.

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Organic fertilizers gradually release nutrients into the soil and maintain a nutrient balance for the healthy growth of crop plants.  Organic fertilizers and minerals can also help improve soil structure and crop growth by helping to maintain healthy soil microbes which feast on organic components in the soil.  Most organic fertilizers are considered to be slow-releasing fertilizers and contain many trace elements that most plants demand.  Organic fertilizers are a safer choice as compared to chemical fertilizers.  One of the big benefits of using organic fertilizers is that it has the potential to help create a living soil rich in humus and nutrients  Instead of a quick fix of using synthetic fertilizers, the use of organic fertilizers helps increase fertility and viability of the soil over time.

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The application of organic fertilizers promotes an increase in the very important bacterial biomass in the soil, which stimulates other secondary productivity and mineralizes nutrients to help plants grow well.  Heterotrophic bacteria, a group of organisms in the soil, process organic material and other components in the soil, including organic carbon, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P).

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​​What Are The Advantages Of Using Organic Fertilizer?

The advantages of using organic fertilizers include healthier, more productive soils.  Components of organic fertilizer have the potential to be available to crops for longer periods of time.   Organic fertilizers are environmentally friendly and easy to use.  Regarding soil structure, organic matter present in organic fertilizer helps soil structure and helps soil’s ability to hold onto water and nutrients.  Microbes typically thrive in soil complimented with organic fertilizer.  Most synthetic fertilizer consists of chemical molecules without carbon. These molecules can sometimes be disruptive and are not accessible to microbes. On the other hand, organic fertilizer is rich in organic matter, which helps microbes thrive. Organic fertilizer contains carbon as part of its chemical makeup; and it is the carbon, along with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that feeds microbes and enables them to make nutrients available for plants in a naturally occurring biological process.

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​Organic fertilizers have a dual purpose.  Not only does organic fertilizer provide nutrients for plants, it also is a soil conditioner.  In other words, they feed plants, soils, and the microbes and worms that live in the soil.  Some synthetic and chemical fertilizers contain mineral salts that can repel earthworms and other life forms in the soil because they acidify the soil. Over time, soils treated only with synthetic fertilizers lose organic matter which helps keep microorganisms and quality soil alive.  Healthy soil leads to healthy plants. 

 

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The Dirt on Growing Garlic with Organic Fertilizer

Garlic is like the overachiever of the garden world—it demands attention, gobbles up nutrients, and wants you to do things just right. It’s a “heavy feeder,” meaning it needs a buffet of nutrients to grow big, flavorful bulbs. But here’s the catch: garlic is picky about its fertilizer. If you give it too little, it’ll sulk and grow small, lackluster bulbs. Too much nitrogen, and it’ll get distracted, growing lush green leaves instead of those prized cloves. Think of it like feeding a teenager: balance is key.

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Organic fertilizers, like compost, fish emulsion, or dehydrated manure pellets, are the garlic grower’s best friend. They’re not just feeding your plants—they’re feeding your soil, improving its structure, and making it a cozy home for helpful microbes. It’s like turning your garden into a five-star resort for worms and bacteria. Just steer clear of overly smelly options like blood meal or fish products if you live near wildlife. Unless, of course, you want raccoons hosting a midnight rave in your garlic bed.

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Unlike synthetic fertilizers, which are all about instant gratification (and long-term soil headaches), organic options are slow and steady, breaking down naturally to release nutrients over time. They also don’t run off into waterways, turning rivers into algae soup and wrecking marine life. And here’s a fun fact: organic fertilizers can boost biodiversity in your soil by 30%! That’s like throwing a party where everyone from fungi to earthworms shows up to keep your garlic happy.

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Now, a quick PSA: skip the urea. This synthetic nitrogen source might seem tempting, but it’s like inviting a bull into a china shop—it wrecks the soil's microbial balance, releases toxic ammonia, and can damage your plants. Plus, who wants to grow garlic that’s been marinating in a chemical cocktail?

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If you’re still on the fence about going organic, consider this: most garlic at the grocery store is imported from China, where it’s often treated with pesticides and bleached with chlorine. Yum, right? Growing your own garlic isn’t just about flavor (though it will taste amazing). It’s about better nutrition, safer food, and a healthier environment. Plus, you get bragging rights for garlic so fresh it practically glows.

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So, treat your garlic right. Feed it with a well-balanced mix of organic fertilizers, avoid overdoing it on nitrogen, and let your soil’s microbes work their magic. The result? Big, bold bulbs that taste like sunshine and a garden that’s healthier, happier, and ready to grow again next season. Garlic isn’t just a plant—it’s a lifestyle.

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When and How to Use Organic Fertilizers: Feeding Your Soil, Feeding Your Plants

To truly understand organic fertilizers, you have to think like a root. Roots are like the underground detectives of your garden, sniffing out nutrients in the soil. Organic fertilizers don’t work like a fast-food drive-thru; they’re more like a slow-cooked meal. Packed with nutrients that need to be unlocked by hardworking soil microbes, organic fertilizers require warmth, moisture, and a little time to transform their treasures into plant-ready fuel.

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When applying dry organic fertilizers, broadcast them over your soil and mix them into the top few inches—imagine tucking the nutrients in for a cozy rest near the plant’s feeder roots. Unlike their synthetic cousins, organic fertilizers are gentle; no risk of burning your tender seedlings with a nutrient overload. For an extra boost during the growing season, side-dress your crops by sprinkling fertilizer in rows near the plants to keep their growth momentum strong.

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The beauty of organic fertilizers lies not just in feeding your plants but also in nurturing your soil. Whether it’s compost, aged manure, or even liquid seaweed, these natural amendments improve soil texture and fertility, making your garden a bustling hub of microbial life. But before you dive in, a soil test is your secret weapon. Think of it as a doctor’s check-up for your garden—it reveals what nutrients are missing so you can create a tailored nutrient management plan. This ensures you’re not overfeeding your crops into a nutrient frenzy or starving them into underperformance.

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Timing is everything when it comes to organic fertilizers. Because they release nutrients slowly, it’s wise to apply them a few weeks before planting so the soil microbes have time to work their magic. For in-season feeding, liquid fertilizers like fish emulsion, liquified worm castings, or seaweed extract are your go-to superheroes. A quick spray or soak every few weeks can keep plants thriving during their most rapid growth or crucial flowering and fruiting stages. Just remember: a little goes a long way. Overdoing it can lead to nutrient imbalances, and no one wants a garden with commitment issues.

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A solid feeding schedule, informed by a soil test, takes the guesswork out of organic fertilizing. While synthetic fertilizers are a quick fix, they lack the lasting benefits of organic options. Organic fertilizers build soil quality over time, creating a foundation for healthy crops season after season. It’s like investing in a retirement plan for your soil—short-term effort, long-term payoff.

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So, embrace the slow and steady power of organic fertilizers. They’re not just helping your plants grow; they’re creating an environment where roots, microbes, and soil all thrive in harmony. Plus, they’re doing it in a way that’s kind to the earth, your veggies, and the world we share. Think of organic fertilizers as the ultimate garden team player—they don’t just grow food; they grow the future.

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Summary on Organic Fertilizers

There are many different types of organic fertilizer available, so you can choose one that is right for your needs. Some common types of organic fertilizer include:

• Compost: Compost is made from decomposed organic materials, such as plant waste, manure, and food scraps. It is a good source of nutrients and organic matter.

• Manure: Manure is made from the waste of animals, such as cows, pigs, and chickens. It is a good source of nutrients, but it can also contain harmful bacteria.

• Fish emulsion: Fish emulsion is made from the waste of fish. It is a good source of nitrogen and phosphorus.

• Bone meal: Bone meal is made from the bones of animals. It is a good source of calcium and phosphorus.

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To use organic fertilizer, simply apply it to the soil around your plants. You can apply it as a side dressing, which means you apply it to the soil next to the plant, or you can broadcast it, which means you spread it over the entire area of the garden.

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When using organic fertilizer, be sure to follow the directions on the label. Too much organic fertilizer can damage your plants, so it is important to use it in moderation.

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Organic fertilizer is a great way to improve the health of your plants and the environment. It is a safe and effective way to fertilize your plants, and it can help to reduce the amount of synthetic fertilizer you use.

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Here are some tips for using organic fertilizer:

• Use the right type of fertilizer for your plants. There are many different types of organic fertilizer available, so choose one that is right for your plants.

• Follow the directions on the label. Too much organic fertilizer can damage your plants, so it is important to use it in moderation.

• Apply organic fertilizer in the spring and fall. This will help to improve the health of your plants and the soil.

• Water your plants after applying organic fertilizer. This will help to prevent the fertilizer from burning your plants' roots.

• Mulch the soil around your plants. This will help to retain moisture and nutrients in the soil.

• Test the soil regularly. This will help you to determine the nutrients your plants need.

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A Happy Story About Using Organic Fertilizer

​Once upon a time, there was a little girl named Mary who loved to garden. She had a small garden in her backyard, and she loved to grow flowers and vegetables.  Mary's parents were very supportive of her love of gardening. They bought her a set of gardening tools and helped her to build a raised bed for her garden.   Her hometown was not far from East Palestine, Ohio USA.

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When Mary was only eleven, Mary's parents took her to the doctor for a check-up. The doctor found a lump on Mary's neck. After some tests, the doctor told Mary's parents that Mary had cancer.  Mary's parents were devastated. They didn't know what to do. But they knew that they had to be strong for Mary. They took Mary to see a specialist, who started her on chemotherapy and radiation treatments.  Did the garden she was working in have contaminated soils?  Did the synthetic fertilizers the previous owners used, cause the problem?  They would never know for sure.  

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Mary was very brave. She never complained, even when she was feeling sick. She kept her smile on her face and her sense of humor. Mary's parents were so proud of her.  

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Mary and her Family moved to Bozeman, Montana.  One day, Mary's mother told her that they were going to start using organic fertilizer in their garden. Mary was excited because she had heard that organic fertilizer was good for the environment.  Mary helped her mother to spread the organic fertilizer in the garden. They worked together to dig it into the soil and then they planted their flowers and vegetables.  Mary was so happy to see her plants growing so well. She knew that the organic fertilizer was helping them to grow healthy and strong.  Mary's mother was also happy with the results of the organic fertilizer. She said that it was making the garden look beautiful and that the plants were thriving.

 

Mary spent hours every day in her new garden. She would water her plants, pull weeds, and talk to her flowers. She loved the feeling of the sun on her skin and the dirt under her fingernails.  One day, Mary was in her garden when she saw a beautiful butterfly. She watched as the butterfly fluttered from flower to flower. Mary was so happy to see the butterfly. She knew that it was a sign that her garden was healthy and happy.  Mary continued to tend to her garden every day during the summer and fall. She loved watching her plants grow and bloom. She also loved the feeling of accomplishment she got from taking care of her garden.  

 

One day, Mary's parents told her that they were going to have a party in her garden. Mary was so excited! She helped her parents to decorate the garden with flowers.  The party was a huge success. Everyone loved the garden and Mary was so proud of her work. She knew that she would always cherish the memories of that day.

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After several months of treatment, Mary was cancer-free. She was so happy to be healthy again. She could finally go back to school and meet new friends. Mary's parents were so grateful to the doctors and nurses who had helped Mary through her illness. They knew that Mary was a miracle.  Mary's story is a reminder that even when things are tough, there is always hope.  ​Mary and her mother continued to use organic fertilizer in their garden. They were both happy with the results and they were both proud of their garden."

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REFERENCES

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Watch -  Using Organic Fertilizer

Bone meal, bat guano, gypsum...what ARE all of these organic fertilizers and how do you actually know WHICH to use, and HOW to use them? Enjoy this long-overdue organic fertilizer breakdown video.  Alfalfa Meal,  Cottonseed Meal,  Bat Guano,  Kelp Meal, Rock Phosphate, Greensand, Gypsum, Garden Lime, Blood and Bone Meal, Cow Manure, Chicken Manure, Earthworm Castings,  Fish Emulsion, Which to Use?

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