While organic fertilisers have many benefits, there are some drawbacks that should be considered before using them. One of the main drawbacks is that they can be more expensive than chemical fertilisers. Another downside to organic fertilisers is that they can take longer to work than chemical fertilisers. This means that you may not see results as quickly as you would with chemical fertiliser. However, the long-term benefits of using organic fertilisers often outweigh the short-term drawbacks. They help to improve soil health and promote plant growth.
Here are the six disadvantages of organic fertilisers:
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Inconsistent nutrients
The nutrient content in organic fertilisers is not consistent. This is because organic fertilisers do not contain a fixed primary nutrient. Therefore, the same amount of a specific fertiliser might result in a different effect on the same type of plants.
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Slow result
Since organic fertilisers are slow-release fertilisers, the effect on plant development is slow. This happens due to the organic substances that are bound together to their structure. As a result, it takes time for microbes to break them down into a form that is available for plant root absorption.
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Potentially pathogenic and source of weed
Incomplete composting can lead to a breeding ground of bad microbes consisting of fungus and bacteria. For instance, animal manure also has the risk of carrying parasites or diseases, which can be hazardous and might cause disease to humans, animals, and plants. Always be cautious when handling organic fertiliser products, and wash hands immediately after its application. Moreover, animal manure can also be a source of weed seeds.
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Expensive price
The price per nutrient for organic fertilisers is much higher compared to synthetic fertilisers. The high price is due to the cost of producing organic fertilisers. More resources, time and energy are a need in organic fertiliser production.
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Requires good microbes
Breaking down organic fertilisers requires an appropriate amount of microbes to have the best efficiency. Soil microbes help in breaking down the nutrients for the plants, however, some soil might have a low number of microbes. As a result, it might take some time for the microbes to breed and break down the organic compounds.
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Pollution
Too much of a good thing can cause excess fertiliser in soils and waterways. Always apply organic fertilisers according to the suggested amount to avoid leaching of the nutrients. For example, algae bloom is caused by excess nutrients.
Organic fertilisers have become popular in recent years as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option than chemical-based fertilisers. However, there are several disadvantages of organic fertilisers that should be considered before making the switch where the main drawback is taking longer to release nutrients into the soil than chemical-based fertilisers. By understanding the pros and cons of organic fertilisers, you can make an informed decision about which product is best for your needs.
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