Chemical Fertilizers and Vermi compost

Fertilizers

All Plants need certain mineral nutrients to survive. These Minerals occur naturally in the Soil and are taken up from the soil by the roots of the plants. Most soils usually have enough of these minerals to keep plants healthy.
However, some nutrients are gradually used up by the plants, or are washed out of the soil, and need to be replaced to maintain optimal Growth and appearance.
The most common mineral nutrients that need replacing are Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K).
The term “fertilizer material” means a commercial fertilizer containing one or more of the recognized plant nutrients, which is used primarily for its plant nutrient content.
Fertilizers are derived from a wide variety of natural and manufactured materials and are sold in solid, liquid and gaseous form (anhydrous ammonia). These materials are designed for use or claimed to have value in promoting plant growth or increasing plant-available nutrient levels in soils.

Complete versus Incomplete Fertilizer

A fertilizer is said to be a complete or mixed fertilizer when it contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (the primary nutrients). Examples of commonly used complete fertilizers are 6-12-12, 10-10-10, 15-15-15 and 20-10-10.
An incomplete fertilizer will be missing one or more of the major components. Examples of incomplete fertilizers are: 34-0-0 (ammonium nitrate), 46-0-0 (urea), 18-46-0 (diammonium phosphate), 0-46-0 (triple super phosphate) and 0-0-60 (muriate of potash).
Incomplete fertilizers are blended to make complete fertilizers. As an example, if 100 pounds of 46-0-0 (urea) were combined with 100 pounds of 0-46-0 (concentrated super phosphate) and 100 pounds of 0-0-60 (muriate of potash), a fertilizer grade of 15-15-20 would result. When these quantities are combined, each quantity is diluted by the other two materials by one-third, provided each fertilizer material contributed equal weight to the blend

Imbalance in use of fertilizers in India

The manufacture, sale, and distribution of fertilizers in the country is regulated by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
There are three major types of nutrients used as fertilizers: Nitrogen (N), Phosphatic (P), and Potassic (K). Of these, the pricing of urea (containing N fertilizer) is controlled by the government, while P and K fertilizers were decontrolled in 1992, on the recommendation of a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
It has been observed that urea is used more than other fertilizers. While the recommended ratio of use of the NPK fertilizers is 4:2:1, this ratio in India is currently at 6.7:2.4:1. Overuse of urea is especially observed in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
An imbalanced use of urea may lead to a loss of fertility in the soil over a period of time, affecting productivity.
Urea (N) is the most produced (86%), consumed (74%) and imported (52%) fertilizer in the country. The government determines the quantity of fertilizers to be imported based on their domestic availability.
However, the process of fixing the quantity to be imported and actually receiving the imports takes about 60-70 days, since only three companies are allowed to import urea into the country.
Thus shortages are often caused in the urea market. Since farmers have to ensure that urea is applied to their crops on time, it leads to the growth of black markets selling urea, often at prices above the maximum retail prices.
The level of fertilizer required for a crop depends upon the soil type, level of yield, and water availability, in addition to the type of crop.
Certain crops such as rice, wheat, maize, Cotton and sugarcane require larger quantities of nitrogen as compared to pulses, fruits and vegetables.
Although the ratio of N, P, and K fertilizer usage across crops has increased, the quantity of fertilizers used by India is still lower as compared to other countries.
The Average consumption of fertilizers increased from 106 kg per ha in 2005-06 to 128 kg per ha in 2012-13. In comparison, Pakistan consumes 205 kg per ha and China consumes 396 kg per ha.
To meet the production target of 300 million tonnes of food grains by 2025 which was mentioned earlier, 45 million tonne of fertilizers would be required. Of this, 6-7 million tonnes may be met from organic fertilizers, but the rest would be met by chemical fertilizers (containing N, P and K). The domestic production of fertilizers would have to be increased to meet this demand.

Nutrient based subsidy policy for Fertilizers

The central government launched the nutrient based subsidy policy (NBS) in 2010 for P and K fertilizers. The policy was formulated with the objective of promoting a balanced use of N, P and K fertilizers.
The policy allowed the manufacturers of P and K fertilizers to fix their maximum retail prices (MRPs) at reasonable levels. The subsidy provided would be based on per kilogram of the nutrient.
The policy also provided for an additional subsidy to be paid to indigenous manufacturers of fertilizers.
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India, in its report on the performance of the NBS policy stated that in the five years since its implementation, the policy had not succeeded in bringing about a balanced use of fertilizers. The fertilizer usage ratio of urea increased from 4.3 in 2009-10 to 8.2 in 2012-13.

Fertilizer Subsidy in India

To promote the use of fertilizers by farmers, the central government provides a fertilizer subsidy to the producers of fertilizers.
In 2017-18, Rs 70,000 crore has been allocated for fertilizer subsidy, which is the second biggest expenditure on subsidy after food subsidy.
Allocations for fertilizer subsidy have been increasing at an annual rate of 11.4% between 2000 and 2016. Of the subsidy allocated for 2017-18, Rs 49,768 crore has been allocated for subsidy on urea.
Currently the amount of subsidy to be given is determined based on the cost of production of the fertilizer company. Companies with a higher cost of production receive greater subsidies. This reduces the companies’ incentive to reduce their cost of production.
Although the consumption of urea has been increasing over the past decade, no new domestic production capacity has been added in the past 15 years.
A Committee that examined the role of Food Corporation of India recommended that cash transfers should be made to farmers to replace the current fertilizer subsidy regime. This would allow farmers to choose fertilizers in the combination best suited to their needs, and help them to fix the fertilizer imbalance in soil.
In the Union Budget 2016-17, it was announced that a direct benefit transfer program for fertilizers would be launched on a pilot basis in a few districts across the country. In July 2016, the government announced that it would be conducting pilot studies of direct benefit transfers in 16 districts in 2016-17

Application of Vermi Compost and Farm Yard Manure

Vermi Compost uses earthworm’s dung as manure whereas Farm yard manure indicates to all residual from farm yards including cattle dung, agricultural wastes.

Below are some of the application of Vermi-Compost and Farm Yard Manure

It increased quality of soil by increasing the amount of various essential micro-nutrients
Helps crop growing faster and healthier

It do not worsen the quality of soil even after multiple uses

Nitrogen fixing Bacteria and their application

Nitrogen Fixing Bacteria

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria, Microorganisms capable of transforming atmospheric nitrogen into fixed nitrogen (inorganic compounds usable by plants).

Two kinds of nitrogen-fixing bacteria are recognized.

the free-living (nonsymbiotic) bacteria, includes the cyanobacteria(or blue-green algae) Anabaena and Nostoc and genera such as Azotobacter, Beijerinckia, and Clostridium.
mutualistic (symbiotic) bacteria; examples include Rhizobium, associated with leguminous plants (e.g., various members of the pea family); Frankia, associated with certain dicotyledonous species (actinorhizal plants); and certain Azospirillum species, associated with cereal Grasses.

The symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria invade the root hairs of host plants, where they multiply and stimulate formation of root nodules, enlargements of plant cells and bacteria in intimate association. Within the nodules the bacteria convert free nitrogen to ammonia, which the host plant utilizes for its development. To ensure sufficient nodule formation and optimum growth of legumes (e.g., alfalfa, beans, clovers, peas, soybeans), seeds are usually inoculated with commercial cultures of appropriate Rhizobium species, especially in soils poor or lacking in the required bacterium.

Application of Nitrogen Fixing Bacteria

More than 90 percent of all nitrogen fixation is effected by these organisms, which thus play an important role in the nitrogen cycle.
They increases the soil productivity and fertility

Helps plants with necessary amount nitrogen compounds hence helping in growth of plant.

Chemical Fertilizers

Chemical fertilizers are substances that are added to soil to improve plant growth. They are made from minerals or synthetic chemicals that provide plants with essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Chemical fertilizers can be applied to soil in a variety of ways, including broadcast application, band application, and foliar application.

There are many different types of chemical fertilizers available, each with its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. Some of the most common types of chemical fertilizers include:

Nitrogen fertilizers: Nitrogen is essential for plant growth, as it helps plants produce chlorophyll and proteins. Nitrogen fertilizers can be either organic or inorganic. Organic nitrogen fertilizers, such as manure and compost, are slow-release and release nitrogen over time. Inorganic nitrogen fertilizers, such as ammonium nitrate and urea, are fast-release and provide plants with a quick boost of nitrogen.
Phosphorus fertilizers: Phosphorus is essential for plant growth, as it helps plants produce energy and store Carbohydrates. Phosphorus fertilizers can be either organic or inorganic. Organic phosphorus fertilizers, such as Bone Meal and rock phosphate, are slow-release and release phosphorus over time. Inorganic phosphorus fertilizers, such as superphosphate and triple superphosphate, are fast-release and provide plants with a quick boost of phosphorus.
Potassium fertilizers: Potassium is essential for plant growth, as it helps plants regulate water and produce strong stems and roots. Potassium fertilizers can be either organic or inorganic. Organic potassium fertilizers, such as wood ash and kelp meal, are slow-release and release potassium over time. Inorganic potassium fertilizers, such as muriate of potash and sulfate of potash, are fast-release and provide plants with a quick boost of potassium.

Chemical fertilizers can provide a number of benefits to plants, including:

Increased crop yields: Chemical fertilizers can help plants grow larger and produce more fruit or vegetables.
Improved plant Health: Chemical fertilizers can help plants resist pests and diseases.
Increased Soil fertility: Chemical fertilizers can help improve the overall health of soil by adding essential nutrients.

However, chemical fertilizers also have a number of drawbacks, including:

Environmental pollution: Chemical fertilizers can pollute water supplies and runoff into waterways.
Soil contamination: Chemical fertilizers can contaminate soil with heavy metals and other pollutants.
Harmful to wildlife: Chemical fertilizers can be harmful to wildlife, including birds, fish, and insects.
Human health risks: Chemical fertilizers can pose a risk to human health, especially if they are not used properly.

Vermicompost

Vermicompost is a type of compost that is made by worms. Worms break down organic matter, such as food scraps, leaves, and manure, into a nutrient-rich material that can be used to improve soil quality. Vermicompost is often referred to as “black gold” because of its dark color and rich nutrient content.

Vermicompost has a number of benefits over traditional compost, including:

It is more efficient at breaking down organic matter.
It produces a higher quality compost.
It is more environmentally friendly.
It is safer to use around children and pets.

Vermicompost can be used in a variety of ways, including:

As a soil amendment: Vermicompost can be added to soil to improve drainage, aeration, and nutrient retention.
As a potting mix: Vermicompost can be used to make potting mixes for houseplants and other plants.
As a foliar spray: Vermicompost can be diluted with water and sprayed on plants to provide them with nutrients.

Vermicompost is a safe and effective way to improve soil quality and plant health. It is a natural product that does not contain any harmful chemicals. Vermicompost is also easy to make and use. If you are looking for a way to improve your garden, vermicompost is a great option.

Safety Precautions When Using Chemical Fertilizers

When using chemical fertilizers, it is important to follow the directions on the label carefully. Chemical fertilizers can be harmful to humans and animals if they are not used properly. It is important to wear gloves and eye protection when handling chemical fertilizers. It is also important to keep chemical fertilizers out of reach of children and pets.

If you are unsure about how to use chemical fertilizers, it is best to consult with a professional. A professional can help you choose the right fertilizer for your needs and teach you how to use it safely.

What is vermicomposting?
Vermicomposting is a process of converting organic waste into a valuable soil amendment using worms. The worms consume the waste and produce castings, which are rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms.

What are the benefits of vermicomposting?
Vermicomposting has many benefits, including:

It is a sustainable way to manage organic waste.
It produces a valuable soil amendment that can be used to improve soil fertility and plant growth.
It helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
It is a low-maintenance process that can be done at home or on a small scale.

How do I start vermicomposting?
To start vermicomposting, you will need:

A worm bin or container
Worms
Organic waste
A bedding material

You can purchase worms from a local garden center or online. Organic waste can include food scraps, paper, cardboard, and leaves. Bedding material can include shredded newspaper, leaves, or straw.

Once you have your materials, you can set up your worm bin. The bin should be at least 12 inches deep and have drainage holes. You can line the bin with newspaper or cardboard, and then add a layer of bedding material. Add the worms to the bin, and then start adding organic waste.

The worms will eat the organic waste and produce castings. The castings can be used as a soil amendment or compost tea.

What are the different types of worms that can be used for vermicomposting?
The most common type of worm used for vermicomposting is the red wiggler worm. Other types of worms that can be used include the European night crawler and the brandling worm.

How often should I add organic waste to my worm bin?
You should add organic waste to your worm bin as often as it is consumed by the worms. A good rule of thumb is to add a new layer of organic waste every week or two.

How do I know if my worm bin is healthy?
There are a few things you can look for to determine if your worm bin is healthy:

The worms should be active and moving around.
The bedding material should be moist but not wet.
There should be no bad odor.
The castings should be dark and crumbly.

What are some common problems with vermicomposting?
Some common problems with vermicomposting include:

Too much moisture: If the bedding material is too wet, the worms may drown. To fix this, add some dry bedding material or newspaper to the bin.
Not enough moisture: If the bedding material is too dry, the worms may stop eating. To fix this, add some water to the bin.
Bad odor: If the bin has a bad odor, it may be due to too much moisture or food waste. To fix this, add some dry bedding material or newspaper to the bin and remove any excess food waste.
Pests: Pests such as flies and mites can sometimes be a problem in worm bins. To prevent pests, keep the bin clean and free of food waste. You can also cover the bin with a screen or mesh to keep pests out.

What are some tips for successful vermicomposting?
Here are some tips for successful vermicomposting:

Start with a healthy Population of worms.
Use a good quality bedding material.
Add organic waste as often as it is consumed by the worms.
Keep the bin moist but not wet.
Monitor the bin for pests and problems.
Harvest the castings when they are dark and crumbly.

Which of the following is not a type of fertilizer?
(A) Chemical fertilizer
(B) Organic fertilizer
(C) Vermi compost
(D) Manure
Which of the following is the best way to apply fertilizer?
(A) Broadcast evenly over the soil
(B) Apply in bands along the rows of plants
(C) Apply directly to the roots of plants
(D) Apply as a foliar spray
How often should fertilizer be applied?
(A) Once a month
(B) Once a week
(C) Once a year
(D) As needed
What are the benefits of using fertilizer?
(A) It can increase crop yields
(B) It can improve soil health
(C) It can help plants resist pests and diseases
(D) All of the above
What are the risks of using fertilizer?
(A) It can pollute water supplies
(B) It can damage the Environment
(C) It can be harmful to human health
(D) All of the above
What is the difference between chemical fertilizer and organic fertilizer?
(A) Chemical fertilizer is made from synthetic chemicals, while organic fertilizer is made from natural materials.
(B) Chemical fertilizer is more expensive than organic fertilizer.
(C) Chemical fertilizer is more effective than organic fertilizer.
(D) Chemical fertilizer is more harmful to the environment than organic fertilizer.
What is the difference between vermicompost and manure?
(A) Vermicompost is made from worm castings, while manure is made from animal waste.
(B) Vermicompost is more expensive than manure.
(C) Vermicompost is more effective than manure.
(D) Vermicompost is more harmful to the environment than manure.
What are the benefits of using vermicompost?
(A) It is a good source of nutrients for plants.
(B) It helps to improve Soil Structure.
(C) It helps to suppress pests and diseases.
(D) All of the above.
What are the risks of using vermicompost?
(A) It can contain harmful bacteria.
(B) It can be expensive.
(C) It can be difficult to find.
(D) All of the above.
What is the best way to apply vermicompost?
(A) Broadcast evenly over the soil.
(B) Apply in bands along the rows of plants.
(C) Apply directly to the roots of plants.
(D) Apply as a foliar spray.