Organic products have become a staple in homes across the nation, according to the [Organic Trade Association] (https://www.ota.com/). With a plethora of inexpensive options available to buyers, it can make a gardener wonder if it’s really that important to use organic products over mass-produced synthetic chemical fertilizers. However, organic gardening maintains the overall health of the soil and plants creating a healthy garden for seasons to come, not just today’s harvest.
Organic vs Synthetic
Synthetic fertilizer typically consists of chemical components that do not allow for microbes to develop. Whereas organic fertilizer is generally made from plant or animal waste, think manure or compost, that is rich in organic matter allowing microbes to thrive. Because of the organic matter present in organic fertilizer, soil structure is improved, and as a result the soil’s ability to hold onto water and nutrients increases.
The harmful chemicals in synthetic fertilizers can cause damage to leaves and roots, not to mention the dangers to waterways and marine life created by this toxic runoff. Organic fertilizers have little to no runoff and provide soil structure instead of damage. Additionally, the Organic Trade Association has found that organic fertilizers increase species biodiversity by 30% when compared to synthetic products.
Why Organic is Right for You
With an ever-growing organic market, it can be difficult to know which option is best for your garden. Although organic products may seem more costly than synthetics initially, they can reduce the need for pesticides as well as mineral additives and requirements. Because of these reductions, organic fertilizer can become cost-neutral and create savings in the long run. The benefits of organic products heavily outweigh synthetic options.
**Organic fertilizers work slowly** Organic fertilizers work by breaking down the soil creating a harmony of nutrition for the soil and plants throughout the growth cycle. Synthetic fertilizers, however, work very quickly but often overfeed the plants, provide zero enrichment for the soil, and damage plants by causing a chemical burn.
**Organic fertilizers improve soil quality** Soil texture is improved with the use of organic materials and fertilizers by allowing the soil to hold water longer. This increases bacterial and fungal activity in the soil creating a perfectly balanced ecosystem. Synthetic matter depletes the soil of helpful nutrients making it unproductive.
**Organic fertilizers are safe** Most of the chemicals used in synthetic fertilizers have warnings listed on the packaging to avoid contact with your skin, so you certainly do not want to use these products to grow foods you may eat or flowers to decorate your home with, not to mention the negative impact they have on nearby water sources like streams and lakes. Organic products, however, are safe for the environment, your family, and your pets!
**Organic fertilizers provide peace of mind** Although organic and synthetic products are equally easy to apply to your garden, organic fertilizers and products provide countless benefits to your property. The ease of convenience, as well as the added benefit of a thriving ecosystem, can give you the reassurance that your garden will have the best opportunities for growth, and your family and pets will be safe no matter where they spend their time outdoors.
Ready to make the move to Organic Fertilizers? The Big Tool Box has a large selection of the top organic fertilizer brands at both our Centennial and Parker locations. Come by one of the stores today and talk with our lawn and garden specialists to see which organic fertilizer is right for you.
The Big Tool Box and Highlands Garden center in Parker and Centennial are your Lawn and Garden Fertilizer HQs, Check out our website for some of the organic fertilizers we carry.
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