Chemical fertilizers lack
the critically important elements needed to ensure the long term productivity
of our soils. These fertilizers, for the most part, offer only N-P-K
(Nitrogen-Phosphorous-Potassium).
When a farmer or gardener
purchases a 50 pound bag of triple 13, he or she receives 6.5 pounds
of N, 6.5 pounds of P, 6.5 pounds of K, and 30.5 pounds of inert material.
When that same farmer or
gardener buys a 50 pound bag of our organic fertilizer, he or she will
receive fifty pounds of plant and soil nutrients, essential minerals,
and other elements which enhance soil productivity and nourish soil
microorganisms.
Organic fertilizers improve
the cation exchange capacity, or "CEC's" of the soil. This
allows for improved uptake of nutrients by the plant. Organic fertilizers
reduce leaching, which is of particular concern in sandy soil. Leaching
moves nutrients away from the plant roots and into the subsurface
water.
Sometimes it takes a few
years to repair the damage done to over-worked soil. Several organic
growers have reported that after three or four years, the amount of
fertilizer that's needed is reduced. In some instances application
of anything except lime or a small amount of nitrogen may be postponed
till the next season.
The July/August, 1999 issue
of "Biodynamics" published a report from a clinical nutritionist,
which found that, in a side by side comparison, organic crops had
10 to 20 percent higher nutrient levels than conventional crops and
less toxicity.
If you wish to know the
right fertilizer for your particular application, you should have
your soil analyzed. If you don't know your soil nutrient requirements,
you should use a balanced fertilizer such as our 5-5-5.
Always take into account
the needs of your plants. Remember that "N" (Nitrogen) promotes
growth of leaves and foliage. "P" (Phosphorus) is required
for development of flowers and fruit, and "K" (Potassium)
is needed for root development and cold hardiness.
Remember also, while NPK
is required for plant growth, more is needed, and our products will
provide that for you. Our fertilizers and feeds contain the following
essential minerals: sulfur, magnesium, calcium, sodium, iron, selenium,
manganese, copper, zinc, and boron. Few if any chemical fertilizers
offer any of these important nutrients.
Ours is not a composted
product. The process of composting may not always generate temperatures
high enough to kill all pathogens and weed seeds. Our products are
examined regularly, at independent labs, to prove to our regulating agencies
that our products are free of bacteria, parasites and weed seed.
It is reported that cattle
and deer will graze plants fertilized with Agreaux products before
they eat chemically fertilized ones.We like to assume that this is
because they are seeking better taste, better nutrition or both.
