In organic farming, fertilizer not only provides nutrients but also food for soil organisms. Choosing the type of fertilizer, treatment before fertilization and fertilization at the right time directly affects effectiveness and the ability to pass certification assessments.
Popular organic fertilizer groups
- Manure:from cattle and poultry. Rich in nutrients but requires composting to kill pathogens, weed seeds and stabilize nitrogen.
- Compost:A mixture of organic ingredients incubated with controlled temperature and humidity. Safer and more stable than fresh manure.
- Green manure:Plants, usually legumes, are buried directly into the soil to add nitrogen and organic matter.
- Commercial organic preparations:Bone meal, fish meal, processed organic fertilizers. Documents need to be checked for validity according to standards.
Why must it be composted?
Applying fresh manure carries many risks: pathogens can contaminate fresh produce, ammoniacal nitrogen causes root burn, and decomposition in the soil temporarily withdraws oxygen and nitrogen from the root zone. Proper tempering, with a prolonged high-temperature period, takes care of most of these problems. Many organic standards stipulate a minimum time gap between application of fully decomposed fertilizer and harvest for fresh crops.
Principles of use
Fertilize according to the actual needs of the plant and the current soil condition, based on analysis results, instead of fertilizing out of habit. Organic nitrogen releases slowly, so lag needs to be taken into account. Avoid over fertilizing with phosphorus accumulated over many years from manure, which can cause micronutrient imbalances and environmental risks. Record the source, amount and date of application of every batch of fertilizer.
Record keeping
For outside purchases, keep the receipt, product label and any confirmation of ingredients. For compost, record the input materials and process. These are the documents the auditor will review to confirm no prohibited supplies are entering the system.
