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Organic Fertilizers You Can Use Instead of Chemicals

Even if one wants to grow plants, the thought that their growth might depend only on chemical fertilizers makes many people hesitate. Without that worry, let’s learn about organic fertilizers that can be used as alternatives!

Compost

Compost can be made from kitchen waste itself. Layer carbon-rich brown waste (dry leaves, twigs, brown paper), then add nitrogen-rich waste (vegetable peels, fruit skins, coffee grounds). Sprinkle water, close the lid, and stir daily. In 2–3 months, compost will be ready, slowly releasing nutrients and enriching the soil.

Animal Waste

Cow dung and poultry droppings enrich the soil and help retain moisture. They provide nitrogen and potassium. But excess use can burn leaves, so apply moderately once a month.

Fish Meal / Fish Emulsion

Fish meal (powder or granules) is mixed into the soil, while fish emulsion (liquid) is diluted and sprayed. Both are rich in nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus—vital for root growth and pest resistance.

Soybean Meal

Made from soybean by-products, this is a slow-releasing fertilizer, gradually nourishing the soil and helping plants grow healthy.

Bone Meal

Prepared by drying and powdering bones, bone meal is rich in potassium. It promotes healthy root growth, especially in root vegetables, and helps nutrient-deficient plants.

Other Alternatives

Vegetable-boiled water, eggshells, rice-washed water, tea/coffee grounds, banana peels, and mixtures like sour buttermilk with jaggery can all serve as natural fertilizers.