when I ran across this blog which really broke it down and clarified it for me!
Please define organic where using superphosphate is concerned. Also when using 10-10-10. Thank you.
Superphosphate
is a synthetic chemical fertilizer that is not approved for use in
organic agriculture. It is manufactured by treating mined phosphate rock
with sulfuric acid. It’s toxic to the microbial life of your soil.
Because it’s water soluble, it can also contribute to phosphorus
pollution of waterways.
If your garden soil lacks phosphorus, it’s better to apply it in the form of bone meal, rock phosphate, composted poultry manure, or compost made from yard waste and kitchen scraps. These organic materials release phosphorus to the soil slowly as they are broken down by soil bacteria. Fish emulsion and liquid seaweed fertilizers offer a quick phosphorus boost.
The ratio 10-10-10 describes the quantities of nutrients within a fertilizer but doesn’t reveal whether or not it’s organic. That said, the vast majority of fertilizers with a 10-10-10 analysis are synthetic. The three numbers represent the percentages of available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the fertilizer.
Gardeners who are in the habit of regularly feeding their soil with rich compost often find that they have no need for additional fertilizers. If necessary, you can supplement compost with complete organic fertilizers that blend natural sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients such as iron and calcium. You’ll know which products at the garden center are organic by their “OMRI Listed” label. —Doug Hall
Tags: compost, fertilizer, fish emulsion, liquid seaweed, manure, nutrient, phosphorus, superphosphateSuperphosphate
is a synthetic chemical fertilizer that is not approved for use in
organic agriculture. It is manufactured by treating mined phosphate rock
with sulfuric acid. It’s toxic to the microbial life of your soil.
Because it’s water soluble, it can also contribute to phosphorus
pollution of waterways.If your garden soil lacks phosphorus, it’s better to apply it in the form of bone meal, rock phosphate, composted poultry manure, or compost made from yard waste and kitchen scraps. These organic materials release phosphorus to the soil slowly as they are broken down by soil bacteria. Fish emulsion and liquid seaweed fertilizers offer a quick phosphorus boost.
The ratio 10-10-10 describes the quantities of nutrients within a fertilizer but doesn’t reveal whether or not it’s organic. That said, the vast majority of fertilizers with a 10-10-10 analysis are synthetic. The three numbers represent the percentages of available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the fertilizer.
Gardeners who are in the habit of regularly feeding their soil with rich compost often find that they have no need for additional fertilizers. If necessary, you can supplement compost with complete organic fertilizers that blend natural sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients such as iron and calcium. You’ll know which products at the garden center are organic by their “OMRI Listed” label. —Doug Hall
I don't know about you but I'm sticking with my compost as once again it is the top choice for our gardens!!
Happy growing!!
Dana O'Brien
Owner
A Place to Grow, Recycled Green Houses
Dana@recycledgreenhouses.com
805 704-1155
