From Seed to Seed:
Plant Science for K-8 Educators

Digging Deeper

Organic versus Synthetic Fertilizers

Fertilizers can be classified as organic or synthetic. Organic soil amendments-including peat moss, manure, compost, and wood ash-provide several benefits. They are generally less concentrated and, therefore, are less likely to harm your plants when over-applied. More importantly, in addition to supplying nutrients to the plants, organic fertilizers improve the structure of the soil, thus improving the overall health of your plants. On the other hand, synthetic soil amendments, such as limestone, vermiculite, perlite, and gypsum, are generally cheaper. You can also make your own compost which is cheaper, faster-acting, and less labor-intensive, than organic fertilizers. Your students can certainly explore the pros and cons of organic versus synthetic fertilizers through experimentation and decide for themselves which they prefer.

Please click the BACK button on your browser to return to the course.