Effects of Chemical Fertilizers

Vegetable gardeners often wonder about the effects of chemical fertilizers on their crops. It is amazing at the range of chemicals now typically used. Organic growers follow the example of old fashioned gardening methods. By using inexpensive (sometimes free such as chicken manure fertilizer) and healthy natural fertilizers, your plants will thrive. Let's scratch the surface and take a closer look at chemical fertilizers effects .

The results of using chemical fertilizers include plants putting their energy into growing bigger quicker. Chemically fertilized plants often perform poorly in terms of producing fruits. The succulent growth provided from artificial fertilizers leaves the plants more vulnerable to diseases and pests.

Using heavy amounts of chemical fertilizers to maximize crop yields leads to increased leaching of nitrates into groundwater. The nitrogen-rich substances found in fertilizer run-off are the main cause for the serious depletion of oxygen in many parts of the ocean.

* As a general rule, feed the soil, not the plant. You should only need to give plants extra nourishment while building up healthy soil.

* Extra feeding does not make extra-strong plants. Plants fed with high nitrogen fertilizers produce masses of foliage at the expense of fruit production.

Field studies attest to the fact that chemicals fed to plants do affect the composition of the stems and leaves. It stands to reason to question to what extent these compounds remain in the foods we eat. Most importantly, what effects of chemical fertilizers are harmful or otherwise for humans and animals?

Children and pets are the most vulnerable to the effects of chemical fertilizers. Studies suggest that chemicals seeped into groundwater from runoffs may have a wide range of adverse effects especially for pregnant women and younger children. Test results show that those exposed to pesticide-fertilizer contaminations were at higher risk of developing endocrine, neurological, and immune system disorders.

Fertilize without the chemical fertilization

To avoid the effects of chemical fertilizers, leave room in the garden for a pile of manure or compost. As well as being ideal as soil amendments they can be turned into natural liquid fertilizers.

Fill a bucket half-way with manure or compost and then fill it to the rim with water. Leave it for a day, then strain it and dilute the liquid until it is a warm amber color. Pour it from a watering can around plants in spring for a quick nutrient boost or for extra pick-me-up feedings throughout the growing season.

Use weak manure tea instead of watering to prevent the negative side of chemical fertilizers for heavy feeders such as squash, cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli. Be careful not to splash it on leaves or vegetables before harvesting.

Comfrey tea is one of the best ways to naturally fertilize your plants for avoiding the potentially dangerous side of chemical fertilizers. Steep armfuls of comfrey leaves in a covered tank of water for several weeks. You can use the liquid year round all around your garden to supply minerals and aid general good health.

* To lessen the smell of comfrey tea, let leaves compost in an old tank or tub without adding water. The leaves will rot into a thick liquid which can be diluted with water as you use the natural fertilizer.

That the flavor of vegetables grown without the effects of chemical fertilizers is distinctly superior can be attested to by my family.

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