Mar y Tierra Organic Fertilizer

Good Organic Food Needs Good Organic Fertilizers

2013-02-15T21:13:00.000-08:00

There is more information out there than you can shake a stick at about what to feed your plants. The direction I go is organic because it's good for the soil (chemical fertilizers will eventually kill the soil), and the way I make it is cost free..

Lets explore some of those methods in detail. Method number one involves what we always ate on Fridays attending public school-fish. Pretty much everywhere that garden supplies are sold, you will find fish emulsion fertilizer. This stinky stuff is made from fish guts and trash fish that would ordinarily be thrown out, but is processed to create a fertilizer that plants love to gobble down. The way fish emulsion fertilizer is made would be an excellent program candidate for the Discovery Channel show "Dirty Jobs". Why? Because fish emulsion fertilizer stinks to high heavens. I can't imagine what a nightmare working in one of those plants would be. But I'm glad somebody does, because that nasty brown slime works really well. You can do a search on the internet to find companies that make this stuff if you're interested in the process. If you decide to go the fishy route to fertilizing remember this; if you use it, don't get any on your hands. It does not like to be washed off.

The next method of fertilizing I recommend is something called greensand. Greensand comes from sediments or sandy rock that contains a high amount of a mineral called glauconite. It's called greensand because, well, because it looks like green sand. It's been used for over a hundred years as an organic fertilizer, and is really good for the soil. It has a slow release rate so your tender veggie or fruit plants won't get burned plus has the added bonus of retaining moisture-always a good thing. And there's trace minerals to boot.

A radical type of fertilizer that is used by organic gardeners (but not me, as of yet) is something that is available every day and free for the taking. If fact, most folks just throw this stuff out. But, it does take a certain mind-shift to consider using it. What is it? "Urine" for a shock (sorry for the bad pun; sometimes I can't help myself). Yes, I'm talking about wee-wee, tinkle, pee, number 1 or any of the other fun and cute names we use for when we take a leak. Some organic gardeners use their own and, for all I know, friends and family's urine as fertilizer. In fact, this is actually pretty common out there in the world and is more acceptable that it is here in the good old US of A. Think China. There is a lack of hygiene fastidiousness involved with using urine as a fertilizer that turns most Americans off. If I were to use urine as fertilizer, I don't know if I would even tell people about it. Who wants to eat something that someone else has peed on. But the fact is, urine, for the most part, is completely sterile and safe to use. Just kind of gross. And it's full of those things that plants just love, love, love to eat. A few rules are in order if you want to start using your urine as a fertilizer. Number 1: keep it fresh. The longer it sits, the less nutritional for the plants it is. And it also stinks more. Number 2 (not to actually be confused with "number 2", if you know what I mean): Always dilute 5 to 1 with water. If you're using it on tender vegetation or seedlings, dilute it 10 to 1. Number 3: don't mix it up with the other bodily waste (back to that "number 2 thing". I'm starting to feel like I'm in the third grade now). Using excrement is a big time no no. Sure, it's used in other countries routinely (again, think China), but you're asking for real trouble with diseases being introduced into the food chain. Think e-coli on the spinach, if you know what I mean. 'Nuff said. And don't ever put dog or cat's waste in the garden for the same reason. Which leads me to another type of fertilizer.

Manure. Farmyard critters like chickens, cows, goats, sheep and horses produce manure at an alarming, prodigious rate. Which is good for your garden. But first it must be properly composted. Which means never put fresh manure in the veggie beds. Once again, e-coli. If it just fell out the backdoor, leave it alone. But if it's been left outside and dried out and has broken down to a nice composty-like texture, it's great. If you decide you're going to raid Farmer Bob's cow pasture for manure, just harvest the completely dried patties. Never the fresh. Break it up and work into the soil-presto!-happy, healthy plants. Then go wash your hands. Throughly.

Another source of fertilizer also comes from the sea. It's kelp. Kelp is a brown seaweed that is harvested along coastlines around the world. One of the benefits of using kelp meal or emulsions for fertilizer is that it adds trace minerals back into the soil. The soil that is used in the big agri-corps' mega-farms is, for the most part, depleted in minerals. Why? Chemical fertilizers leach them out of the soil, and those corporate farmers don't bother replacing the minerals. They don't need no stinking minerals! That actually costs money and cuts into shareholder dividends which is what it's really about for them. They just throw more fertilizer at the problem and call it a day. It's important to have trace minerals in the soil, because we need them in order to stay healthy ourselves. Things like copper, boron, manganese, iron, etc. are essential to your health. People used to get those from the foods they eat which were grown organically before modern commercial farming practices became the norm.

These are just a few of the many, many choices you can make for providing the nutrients your veggie and fruit plants need to thrive and provide you with organic food. Growing organically is really no more difficult that standard farming with chemicals, except they are safer for everything up and down the food chain. You just need a little more forethought and research on what to use instead of those chemicals.

Now get out there and plant your future.

I refer to myself as a microfarmer for one simple reason-I grow a significant amount of food every year on a very small plot of land. I call it my micro farm. My family and I live on what was euphemistically at the time called a "cottage lot" when we bought our home. In reality, the lot is a postage stamp. But, by using intensive techniques, I'm able to grow a great deal of the fresh fruits and vegetables we eat every day. If you want to know how I set up my micro farm, you can go to my website- [http://www.themicrofarmer.com] and download my free e-book "Step By Step Guide To MicroFarming" to begin your journey of "Planting Your Future".

6 Of The Top Organic Fertilizers

2013-02-03T03:06:00.000-08:00

Organic Fertilizers

Some of the most important organic fertilizers are fish emulsion, seaweed, earthworm castings, bone meal, kelp meal, and rock phosphates. These natural fertilizers will improve your plants, especially yield plants, and are great for the soil. Not only do they nourish your plants but the soil as well so that it is healthy enough to support whatever you decide to plant. It is quite easy to match the organic fertilizer to the plant you need it for thus improving the plants and making them healthier. They also tell you how often to use them so that you don't overdo. Some fertilizers are longer lasting and do not have to be applied as often.

Fish Emulsion and Seaweed

This combination of organic fertilizer is just about as good as one can get. They are high in trace minerals that plants need and help to establish root growth. The joining of the two makes the best complete fertilizer so there is no need to add anything else. Fish emulsions made from fish or fish by-products along with seaweed, a saltwater plant can give you a very healthy plant or plants.

Earthworm Castings

Earthworms are burrowers. While burrowing in the soil they swallow the soil that contains organic matter. It is then ground up in the gizzard and expelled as castings. These castings aerate the soil and have over 60 trace minerals that are needed by plants. Do not use chemical fertilizers near earthworms as it is toxic to them.

Bone Meal

Due to the slow release of this organic fertilizer it is safer when transplanting new plants and lowers transplant shock. It promotes a healthy root system. It contains calcium, nitrogen, and phosphorus and is one of the best plant foods.

Kelp Meal

This fertilizer is made from dried seaweed and is used as an additive with other organic fertilizers. It is high in plant food growth hormones which will help your plants to grow bigger and stronger. It is also thought that plants that this is used on develop a resistance to pests and disease.

Rock Phosphates

It is not only a natural source of calcium, phosphates, and trace minerals but it improves the soil and is one of the best fertilizers for transplanting young plants since it does not burn roots. It is also a slow dissolver in water which makes it last a lot longer than most others.

Organic fertilizers are the best for your garden, flowers, and your lawn. They provide natural elements to the soil and plants which is very beneficial to the environment. Today when everything we eat and use is chemically altered in one way or another it is refreshing to know that we can get back to the basics and perhaps be healthier in the future. After all most of these elements have been around for centuries.

Jim's articles are from extensive research on each of his topics. You can learn more of organic and natural fertilizers by visiting: Organic Fertilizers

How to Choose the Right Organic Fertilizer

2013-01-29T04:55:00.000-08:00

Are you thinking of going organic? Going organic is the way to go to protect yourself from harsh chemicals, to help the environment, and make a wonderland out of your backyard. But choosing the right organic fertilizer can be a real headache, especially for those who have just decided to take up organic gardening as a hobby. After reading this article, you will help be able to decide on what type of organic fertilizer you might want to use for your plants, whether vegetables or flowers.

There are several types of organic fertilizers available in the market, such as fish emulsions, seaweed extracts, bone meal, kelp extract, corn meal, etc. You can purchase them in a liquid or pelletized form. Some require being sprayed on, powdering the foliage, or spreading pellets around the base of the plant. These may come in different forms, e.g. liquid, powder, granular or pelleted organic fertilizers. The liquid organic fertilizer is basically applied via foliage spray while the powder form can be applied like tea. The liquid version gives your plants an instant feeding, while the pelleted is more of a slow release or longer lasting version.

Organic based pelleted fertilizers contain only a minor amount of chemicals and is mostly natural. The low chemical structure makes it ideal for a great nutrient-source for plants and for the soil. I usually use kelp meal and fish emulsion, which are both bi-products of the sea. This way I get a liquid and a pellet. Using both versions during the growing season has its advantages.

One of the best sources of organic fertilizers is Yardiac. Don't put that nasty chemical laden fertilizer on your garden even if you think you will save a penny or two. Stick with the organic fertilizers.

And now I would like to offer you a Free copy of my Gardeners Journal so that you can easily document your gardening experience and track what you do. Go to my blog at [http://www.mastergardenergirl.com] and click on "Subscribe to Master Gardener Girls' Gardening Blog by Email" and I will send you a copy of this file.

Happy Gardening from Master Gardener Girl!

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2013-01-26T08:41:00.001-08:00

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2013-01-25T12:56:00.001-08:00

Gardening With Organic Fertilizers

2013-01-25T10:59:00.000-08:00

WHAT IS ORGANIC FERTILIZER?

Basically, inorganic fertilizers are made from synthetic, manufactured chemicals, and organic fertilizers are made from naturally occurring organic material. This is a bit of an oversimplification, however, and sometimes the line between organic and inorganic fertilizers can get a bit blurry. For example, naturally occurring minerals such as limestone, saltpeter, and mine rock phosphate, although technically inorganic (they come from rocks, after all), have been used as fertilizers for centuries and are just as safe as organic fertilizers.

Organic fertilizers are generally created as other organic material that rots and decays. As plant and animal matter rots, the organic material breaks down into its component water and minerals. The resulting biomass is very high in nutrient quality.

The most common example of this is compost, which many backyard gardeners make themselves from organic waste, dead leaves, grass clippings, leftover food, etc. Another example is animal manure, which is also very high in nutrient content and has been used in agriculture as a fertilizer for thousands of years. Finally, some plants are used directly as fertilizers, like seaweed and peat moss.

WHAT'S WRONG WITH INORGANIC CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS?

Many inorganic fertilizers contain synthesized chemicals that do not occur naturally in nature, and thus can become harmful. The introduction of such chemicals, if used extensively over time, can throw off the local environment and ecosystem.

The most common form of chemical pollution occurs when it rains, and the synthetic chemical fertilizers get washed out of the soil into the rainwater runoff. This agricultural runoff flows into the ponds and streams, where they frequently kill the fish and other water life. These chemicals also eventually leech down into the groundwater that people and animals drink.

Finally, some crops will absorb these synthetic chemicals into their plant matter as they grow. When people buy such produce and eat it, these chemicals are introduced to their bodies. One meal of such produce may be harmless, but over a lifetime of eating such produce, these synthetic chemicals can build up in the body.

IS ORGANIC FERTILIZER REALLY BETTER?

Obviously, the introduction of unnatural chemicals into the local environment is not a problem with organic fertilizers, which are made from other naturally occurring organic plant and animal matter.

In terms of encouraging crop grow, however, organic fertilizers are just as good as synthetic fertilizers. Whereas synthetic fertilizers are concentrated, organic fertilizers are more diluted throughout a large amount of biomass. On the one hand, this means you have to use more organic fertilizer to achieve the same effect as a smaller amount of synthetic fertilizer. On the other hand, however, this means that the nutrients are released into the soil gradually, at a slower, more consistent rate over the course of the crops growth cycle. This prevents the boom-and-bust cycle that some synthetic fertilizers can create in crops.

Finally, a 32-year study in Sweden between organic and synthetic fertilizers found that, although both greatly encouraged crop growth over unfertilized fields, organic fertilizers encouraged a higher yield than synthetic fertilizers (65% compared to 50%).

We hope this article has answered some of your questions about organic fertilizers. This article, however, is just the tip of the iceberg, there is much more to learn. If you want to try using organic fertilizers, we suggest doing more research so you can find just the right fertilizer for your garden.

Disclaimer:This article is intended for information about organic fertilizers, farming and gardening only. It should not be regarded as scientific or expert advice in its own right. The information has been taken from secondary sources and is given here in good faith. We recommend you conduct your own research with expert & scientific sources prior to making purchases or applying any technique mentioned here.

Visit Organic Farming Fertilizer [http://www.organicfarmingfertilizer.com] for more information on Organic Gardening, Organic Farming, Organic Lawn Care and Organic Fertilizers.

So Many Healthy Reasons to Use Organic Fertilizers on Your Garden

2013-01-20T21:02:00.000-08:00

With the growing concern for healthy eating the use of organic fertilizer has gained its way. We all know the harmful effects of using chemical fertilizer both to the plants and the consumers as well. It is possible to maintain beautiful lawns, gardens and parks without the use of these harmful pesticides. These chemicals are also harmful to the environment.

In organic fertilizer the nutrients contained are derived solely from the remains or a by-product of an organism. Examples of organic fertilizers are cottonseed meal, blood meal, fish emulsion, manure and sewage sludge etc. Urea is a synthetic organic fertilizer which is an organic substance manufactured from inorganic materials.

Three major nutrients required in a good fertilizer are nitrogen, phosphorous and potash. Some fertilizers have one of them but low in the other two and some are low in all three. When packed these fertilizers have the fertilizer ratio stated on the package label. So, when buying fertilizers for your lawn it is advisable to check this data. Some of the fertilizers particularly composted manures and sludges are available as soil conditioners but do not have a nutrient guarantee stated on the package, although small amounts of nutrients are present. For a higher nutrient analysis you can buy fortified organic products where an organic material such as rock phosphate is used to increase phosphorus, or greens and to increase potash.

Organic fertilizers can be most effective when the soil is moist and warm for the microorganisms as to act as these fertilizers depend on them to release nutrients. Nutrient release otherwise in general takes occurs after a long time and thus organic fertilizer may not release enough nutrients and may affect the plants growth.

The most common used organic fertilizer is manure. It is a complete fertilizer but the amount of nutrients it supplies is not sufficient. The nutrient content depends upon the animal source and thus may vary. A fertilizer ratio of 1-1-1 is typical. Manures of horse, cow, pig, chicken and sheep are mainly used. Best is to use the manure when it is fresh to get the highest nutritional concentration. When kept for sometime, exposed to weather, or composted, the nutrient content is reduced. Gardeners prefer to use composted forms of manure to ensure lesser amounts of salts, thereby reducing the chance of burning plant roots. Manure is popularly used as a soil conditioner instead of a fertilizer due to its low concentration of plant nutrients. A moderate rate of 70 pounds is used per 1000 square feet to as much as one ton per 1000 square feet.

Some of the advantages of using organic to chemical fertilizers are:

o Help in maintaining soil health and improving the soil structure

o Mobilizes existing soil nutrients, so that good growth is achieved with lower nutrient densities while wasting less

o Helps to release nutrients at a slower, more consistent rate

o Helps to retain soil moisture

Jeffrey Meier at Jam727 Enterprises at http://www.thearticlehome.com blog offers even more detailed information on a wide variety of topics.

Organic Fertilizer

2013-01-16T03:37:00.000-08:00

Nowadays there is trend of organic gardening (sustainable gardening), creating confusion of using natural/organic fertilizers for home garden use. There is a range of natural and manufactured materials available in the market. People are with great misconceptions for selecting fertilizers.

To make a decision to buy the fertilizer one must first understand the basic plant nutritional concepts. Plants manufacture the complex structures they need to grow through photosynthesis and other metabolic activities. There is no need of vitamins, minerals or other complex compounds. There are four basic requirements for a plant to grow. They need water, air, sunlight basically and the rest is the thirteen essential elements. The basic requirement fulfilled of the plants is dependent on the environment and the growth media in which they live. The growth media for house gardening is soil. Soil is essential and living entity for life of plant. Soil is associated with microbial communities which provide all essential nutrients for healthy plant growth. It's a natural fertilizer. There are hundreds of fertilizers we can add to the soil to improve our soil and make our plants more healthy, vibrant, and productive.

Natural Organic Fertilizers are made from waste products like chicken feathers and manures. These materials are with very slow release rates. It requires soil bacterial action to convert the organic matter into forms usable by plants. A nutrient released is excessively slow when cool soil temperatures reduce bacterial activity. Higher application rates applied the fertilizer last for a longer period of time. Natural organic fertilizers, comparatively with less nutrient content and weight per volume, will require significantly larger volumes in application. The problems associated with use of natural organic fertilizer include slow response, particularly in cool soils, and homeowners misjudge application rates due to the larger volume of material needed. The cost is comparatively high.

In case of manufactured organic fertilizers, carbon is the main building block containing other plant nutrients. They vary in release rate depending on the product. The most common manufactured organic fertilizer is urea. Its fast in release rate, but sulphur coated urea is with slow release rate. The cost is moderate.

Climate change has brought about many variations in the level of minerals and nutrients present in the soil.This increase the need of getting good quality Organic Fertilizer which can full-fill the decency of Nitrogen,phosphorous, Humic Acid, potassium,etc necessary for the healthy growth of crops.

Organic Fertilizers - What's the Big Stink?

2013-01-12T07:45:00.000-08:00

Here's a list of some organic fertilizers you can encounter:

Manures for the garden come from cow, sheep, poultry and horses. Pretty self-explanatory. Manure is known as a "complete" fertilizer; it has a lot of organic matter, but is low in nutrients. Manures are most valuable as organic soil amendments and mulches. Note: Beware of using fresh manure as a fertilizer because it can burn plants.

Bat guano is protected by caves from leaching, so nutrients are conserved. It is rich in soluble nitrogen, phosphorous and trace elements. Usually powdery, bat guano may be used any time of year as a top dressing or diluted in a tea and used as a foliar spray.

South American seabird guano is among the world's best. It is gathered off the rocks of arid sea islands, where rainfall and decomposition is minimal. As a result, seabird guano is very high in nitrogen, phosphorous and other nutrients. At Planet Natural, we offer all kinds of garden supplies, including guanos, which provide plant nutrients in a natural form.

Bone meal is finely ground bone. A by-product from animal slaughterhouses, it is a great source of calcium and contains up to 15% phosphate. Bone meal promotes strong root systems and flowering. It is often used when growing flowers, bulbs and fruit trees.

Shellfish fertilizer or shell meal is made from crushed bones or shells from crab or other shellfish. It is a great source of calcium in addition to phosphorus and many trace minerals. One benefit of shellfish fertilizer: it contains chitin which encourages the growth of organisms that inhibit harmful pest nematodes.

Blood meal is dried, powdered blood collected from cattle slaughterhouses. It's such a rich source of nitrogen that gardeners have to be careful not to over-apply and burn the roots of their plants. Apply just before planting to stimulate green leafy growth.

Rock phosphate is a calcium or lime-based phosphate rock that is usually ground to the consistency of small crumbs. This rock powder contains over 30% phosphate and a large number of trace elements. Rock phosphate does not leach out of the soil, remaining unchanged until taken up by the roots.

Greensand is an iron potassium silicate that gives the minerals in which it occurs a green tint. Mined from an ancient New Jersey sea bed deposit of shells, it is rich in iron, potassium and numerous micronutrients.

Fish emulsion is a partially decomposed blend of finely pulverized fish. It can smell, although some deodorized versions have been developed. Like blood meal, it should be used sparingly in order not to burn plant roots.

Sewer sludge are the solids that remain after sewage treatment. The treated sewage is inoculated with microorganisms and aerated. Then it is filtered, dried, ground, and screened. It is often used as both a soil amendment and a fertilizer on ornamentals and lawns. Note: Sludge is no longer allowed for use in organic crop production due to concerns about heavy metals.

If all of those are organic fertilizer, you're probably wondering what makes for an inorganic fertilizer. Non-organic fertilizers are synthetic chemicals.Organic Fertilizers vs. Inorganic

There are advantages and disadvantages to organic and inorganic fertilizers. The major benefit of organic fertilizers is that they work slowly. They need to be broken down by soil organisms in order for their nutrients to be released and that takes time. Because they work slowly, nothing is wasted. They are consumed as they are released, unlike chemical fertilizers, which are released immediately into the soil.Organic fertilizers carry some other perks. Because they contain organic material, they improve the soil's structure or its "workability." Soil that's been fertilized with organic matter is easier to work and allows more air to get to plant roots. The organic material also permits soil to hold water longer. Finally, the addition of organic substances used in fertilizer increases the bacterial and fungal activity in the soil. Overall, organic fertilizer not only helps your plants, it improves your soil.

Organic fertilizers' biggest strengths are also their weakness. Because organic fertilizer's nutrients are slowly released into the soil, they are not immediately available to plants. If there is an immediate need for nutrients, you may want to consider liquid fertilizers or foliar applications.Inorganic fertilizers work fast, which can be a boon or a bane depending on your garden's needs. Another disadvantage of inorganic fertilizer is that over watering or rain can push the chemicals beneath roots where they won't do any good. Inorganic fertilizers, because they are so rich, can easily "burn" roots or create a toxic concentration of salts if over-applied.

Although organic fertilizers do carry many benefits, especially over time, plants often do not know the difference. Your zucchini plant doesn't care if the nitrogen it's feeding on came from a compost pile or a test tube.Proper Use

To ensure proper use, first figure out what your plants' nutrient needs are. This is based on soil conditions, previous fertilizers used and the type of plants that you are growing. The best way to find out what you need to add to the soil is to test and determine what's in your soil. A soil test can cost anywhere from $10 to $40 per sample and should be done every two to three years. (Any time you encounter problems is also a good time to have the soil retested.) At Planet Natural we offer a simple, yet accurate soil test kit that uses a "color comparator" and capsule system for under $20.00.A soil test report will present findings such as the pH being "normal," the amount of iron being "adequate" and the amount of potassium being low. It will include nutrient recommendations for material that needs to be added. For example, if the report says your soil is low on potassium, it will recommend that you add two pounds of potassium per 1,000 square feet.Also, know the labeling system that the industry has standardized on. Each label will list N-P-K numbers and in that order. The N stands for nitrogen, the P for phosphorus and the K for potassium. An organic fertilizer will generally have an NPK ratio that adds up to less than 15 and with no individual number greater than thirteen. If you see big numbers on the label, chances are it's chemical rather than organic. A "6-12-0" fertilizer contains 6 percent nitrogen, 12 percent phosphate and 0 percent potash. A hundred pound bag of this material would contain six pounds of nitrogen (100 x .96), 12 pounds of phosphate (11 x .12) and no potash.Lower numbers do not mean low grade. In the case of organic fertilizers it just means that the nutrients aren't immediately available, but are released slowly over time. Note: It is our opinion that some fertilizer companies use high NPK ratios purely for marketing purposes. The "more must be better" philosophy is alive and well in the industry...but does a lawn really require a fertilizer that consists of 60% nitrogen?

Fertilizers with ingredient lines that include words like ammonium, muriate, urea, nitrate, phosphoric, or super phosphate usually are chemical-based rather than an organic fertilizer.

Also be wary of fertilizers that contain cottonseed meal and leather tankage. These aren't bad in and of themselves, but they are frequently contaminated with harmful residues.Using Fertilizers

Whatever fertilizer you buy, follow the application instructions including how much to apply, when and where.

When using organic fertilizers, which are mostly slow-release materials, the timing of fertilizing is not as critical as it is when using fast-release chemical fertilizers. Plan to work fertilizers into garden beds every spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Highly productive plants, including vegetables, should have regular monthly applications of organic fertilizer.

Proper use of organic fertilizers can give you a bumper crop of vegetables or flowers that will be the envy of your neighbors.

This article was written by Eric Vinje of Planet Natural.

Get the most out of your garden with organic fertilizer available at Planet Natural.

Organic Fertilizers Are More Environmentally Safe Than Petroleum Based Fertilizers

2013-01-09T05:35:00.000-08:00

Natural Liquid Fertilizers are better for the environment and can provide nitrogen, phosphorus potassium and at the same time regulate soil and plant PH levels.

These essential nutrients promote vigorous growth, increased root development and improved disease and stress tolerance.

Natural liquid ingredients are released slowly so there is less chance of environmental impact. Adding natural ingredients to the soil increases microbial activity. Soil microbes fix the nutrients needed for plant growth and release them slowly as plants need them. On the other hand petrochemical fertilizers are often high in soluble salts that are detrimental to soil microbes and plants alike: They decrease microbial activity and plant nutrient uptake. Although these fertilizers are high analysis N-P-K, the plant-use efficiency is very low.

Some Natural Fertilizers utilize kelp concentrate from the icy waters of the North Atlantic Ocean.

Kelp accumulates high levels of plant growth hormones and nutrients. When used as a fertilizer, kelp makes plants more robust and healthy by enhancing their heat, drought and cold tolerance. It also supplies N-P-K, sulfur (S), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), boron (B), sodium (Na), carbohydrates and numerous amino acids.

Natural Fertilizers can also use hydrolyzed fish solubles.

Fish solubles are extracted through low temperature processes from Menhaden fish which were used by Native Americans for centuries to grow their crops. Menhaden comes from the word "munna whaleaug" which means "that which manures." Menhaden ocean fish feed on mineral rich plankton, which makes them full of essential nutrients. The fish are steamed slowly at 190° F, which preserves the amino acids, minerals and vitamins. The fish is then broken down into smaller components with enzymes (hydrolysis). The fish component in Natural Fertilizer supplies N-P-K and 10 micronutrients, as well as a number of vitamins and amino acids.

Bloodmeal and sulfate of potash combined with the fish can boost the nutrient levels in Natural Fertilizer. Together, the kelp, fish, bloodmeal and sulfate of potash provide all of the elements needed to grow healthy, vigorous plants. In addition to these ingredients, a number of other natural additives will condition the soil, reduce transplant shock and chelate the nutrients. Chelated nutrients are protected against leaching into the groundwater and are readily available for plant uptake.

Natural Fertilizer applied in liquid form is easily applied and safe fore the environment providing beautiful, healthy plants and super yields of high quality, nutritious vegetables, fruits and field crops.

For the best Liquid Organic Fertlizers.

Call 254 666-2641 or 254 275-0033 for ordering information or go online at

http://www.lubedealer.com/saveonoil/home.aspx

email schollhort@gmail.com detail crop information
Proper applications of liquid organic fertilizers requires simple soil testing to determine soil and cropneeds. Soil testing is available.
These products are available in most states.

Organic Fertilizers

2013-01-04T19:33:00.000-08:00

When bringing up the topic of organic fertilizer the fist thought that comes to mind for most is compost and manures. A natural by-product from a living organism. Generally compost and manures are the two most common organic fertilizers that a home gardener thinks of.

Organic fertilizers are a much larger category than most realize. It includes blood-meal, compost, cottonseed meal, fish emulsion, manures and a list of other minerals. It even includes sludge that has been processed from sewage treatment facilities. Along with these are synthetic organic fertilizers like urea that is processed from inorganic material.

When choosing organic fertilizer it is best that you read label to make sure that you know and understand the proper application, there intended use and if and precautionary measures are needed when handling the product. Most organic fertilizers are not as high in there nutrient values as a chemical fertilizer and release nutrients at a slower and longer rate.

Organic fertilizers are both healthier for you and the environment. Fertilizing with organic material also creates a healthier and happy plant and planet.There are no chemicals in organic fertilizers that get passed on to the fruits and vegetables that we eat. It also stops from polluting our air and ground water supplies.

Organic fertilizers that are made by the home gardener are commonly made up of organic matter such as cow manure, chicken manure, green manure and/or compost. Mixing cow or chicken manure to your compost will greatly increase the benefits of the compost and by adding to the structure of your garden soil when used. It also helps to activate the enzymes that naturally occur in the soil so the nutrients from your compost can be absorbed more easily for your plants to benefit from.

The one thing about making your own compost blend of fertilizer is that you wont know the nutrient value that it contains. Testing your compost can be done the same way you test you garden soil with a soil testing kit.This will let you know what the ph level is in the compost along with the nitrogen, phosphorous and potash values. If there are any amendments that are needed they can be directly mixed into the compost and adjusted before they are applied.

Compost mix can also be blended for indoor plants and is also beneficial when added to your potting soil mix. It will add nutrients to the soil that are beneficial to indoor plants. The adding of organic matter to improve the soil structure to your potting soil and will also add the nutrients that plants need over a longer period of time than using commercial fertilizers.

A environment friendly and healthy way of gardening. Organic Gardening is away of gardening in harmony with nature. Growing a healthy and productive crop in a way that is healthier for both you and the environment.

John Yazo

[http://www.organicheirloomgardening.com]

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2012-12-31T09:24:00.001-08:00

Organic Fertilizers - The Pluses and Minuses

2012-12-31T04:27:00.000-08:00

In today's climate, home growers, gardeners and farmers are beginning to understand the need for providing nutrients quickly in order to promote abundant plant growth in gardens and landscapes. Application of nutrients may be accomplished by using either organic or inorganic fertilizer.

Due to increased environmental concerns, growers today tend to prefer the use of organic fertilizers over the inorganic type. Inorganic fertilizers are known to contain chemicals that may contain concentrated nutrients that may leach and disrupt the soil.

It should be noted however, that most people who buy organic fertilizers use them because they believe they are safer for plants. However, if the fertilizer is not applied properly, it can be just as harmful to plants as chemicals are. If not applied properly, they may contribute to ground water pollution, induce salt burn, or cause nutrient deficiencies and soil toxicity.

One particular problem that should be emphasized with organic fertilizers is that many of them contain high levels of salt, which can cause "burning" in plants. Organic fertilizer may be applied either on the surface or directly into the soil by tilling or watering. It may help to use a spreader to be certain the fertilizer is appropriately applied.

Organic fertilizer users should also note that when using organic fertilizer, it is important to calculate the proper amount of organic fertilizer to use in the soil. Annual tests should be performed to determine the nutrient needs of the soil prior to application.

If a soil test confirms that there are nutrients within the soil that are at high or excessive levels, it is recommended that you should choose an organic fertilizer that has lower concentrations of these nutrients. Any excess of nutrients in the fertilizer can lead to leaching and imbalance which will inevitably slow and kill plant growth. If a soil test informs you that Nitrogen is needed, you should choose a fertilizer with high Nitrogen content. If you discover that your soil is lacking in both Nitrogen and Phosphorus, then a fertilizer with high levels of both nutrients is best for the optimal performance of the soil.

Nutrient deficiency in soil is most often Nitrogen-based, that is why organic fertilizers are produced with high amounts of Nitrogen. Most grasses simply will not grow, or will grow very poorly if there is a Nitrogen deficiency. The same can occur with vegetable and fruit gardens. In order to increase the growth of lawn grass or improve crop yields, fish emulsions and seaweed extracts are the organic fertilizers you should use. These fertilizers are high in soluble Nitrogen.

The good news is if you wish to transform your garden or farm from organic to synthetic fertilizer usage, the problems are only temporary. Over time, the soil will naturally balance the chemical and organic composition of the soil which may hinder the increased crop yields for the first year or so, but persistence will prevail.

Disclaimer:This article is intended for information about organic fertilizers. It should not be regarded as scientific or expert advice in its own right. The information has been taken from secondary sources and is given here in good faith. We recommend you conduct your own research with expert & scientific sources prior to making any purchases or applying any technique mentioned above.

If you are interested in more information on Organic Farming, Organic Gardening or Organic Fertilizers, visit us here at: Organic Fertilizers [http://www.organicfarmingfertilizer.com]

Organic Fertilizer - Salt, Coffee Grounds, and Day Old Coffee Pump Up the Peppers

2012-12-26T15:56:00.000-08:00

I love gardening. I'll plant vegetables anywhere. I also love using organic fertilizer and gardening products whenever possible. This past summer, we had more than our share of rain. My pepper plants did not seem to be doing well during the excessively rainy summer. Peppers like it hot, and they love sun. I had a wide variety of peppers, too, including bells, Tabasco, volcano, pimiento, jalapeno, sweet banana, and a few other varieties.

I tried using Miracle-Gro which was working fine on some of my other garden plants. I normally alternate among fertilizers, using organic fertilizer as often as possible. The peppers remained dull and listless, as if completely stuck. I switched over to fish emulsion, that really awful smelling yet highly effective fertilizer. Things improved slightly, but not enough to suit me.

I started doing some research and discovered two fertilizers that I had not yet tried. Amazingly enough, both products were ready available in my own home. The first "fertilizer" product I discovered was Epsom salts, more commonly known as magnesium sulfate.

I took a small handful of the Epsom salts and put them around the base of each pepper plant, and then I watered the salt into the soil. I repeated this process once weekly. The results were amazing.

At the same time, I also began to take our used coffee grounds and spread those around the plants as well. After a few days, I decided if the pepper plants liked coffee grounds, surely they would not have a problem with the excess coffee left in the pot, so I made sort of a "coffee tea" by diluting the left over coffee with a little water and applied that to the plants as well.

My husband and I could not believe the results. The plants bushed up and out, transforming into some of the most gorgeous, luscious pepper plants I've ever seen. We had to stake the plants to support the heavy pepper load. I have never, in all my years of gardening, had pepper plants produce that many peppers.

One thing that commonly happens when fertilizing vegetables is that you might get a lot of green leaf and plant growth without much vegetable production. That was not the case. These plants became abundantly loaded with peppers. I had to spend half days washing and slicing them so I could preserve them in the freezer.

One thing I noticed when using the Epsom salts on other garden plants, such as squash. Do not "throw" the fertilizer onto the vegetable plant leaves. Take the time to place it around the plant base, and then water it in. I made the mistake on a really hot day of trying to do a quick scatter. Some of the salts got on the squash leaves and the sun literally burned the leaves up.

I am still not sure if that was what caused the problem with the squash, but without more experimentation I personally recommend a plant base application and lightly watering in.

It could primarily be the Epsom salt, or it could primarily be the coffee grounds and "coffee tea" producing these outstanding results. Then again, it might be the combination of the two. Of course, the fertilizer is just a part of the gardening process. You can't expect miracles. Vegetables still require good soil, adequate sunlight, and sufficient water.

It is now late September, and the pepper plants are still lusciously green and loaded with peppers. I live in the Deep South so our growing season is a little longer than in some other locations. As long as we keep harvesting, those plants keep producing. We'll keep harvesting peppers until frost comes, I suppose! From now on, my pepper plants will drink coffee and get salted on a regular basis! Happy gardening!

REPRINT RIGHTS statement: This article is free for republishing by visitors provided the Author Bio box is retained as usual so that all links are Active/Linkable with no syntax changes.

Laura Brown is an experienced ghostwriter and freelance writer. She also enjoys gardening and cooking. You can find some delicious recipes on her website, The Rancher's Daughter, along with a lot of useful and informative information on gardening, cooking, flowers, and living in the country. Learn more about Organic Fertilizer

Types of Organic Fertilizers and Compost

2012-12-23T15:16:00.000-08:00

If you do not use chemicals and just try to fertilize your plants the organic way it can prove to be a pretty difficult task. Chemical fertilizers are definitely more convenient. Most of them come in a form that must be mixed with water followed by being sprayed on the plants. But organic gardeners also have a great way to fertilize their garden, namely compost.

You must pay particular attention to the package in case you intend to buy the store ready compost. Some of them are high in one of the major nutrients, but lack other important ones. Plants usually need nitrogen, phosphorus plus potassium. Specialists recommend that you study what your plants need and choose a pre made compost that will suit your plant's needs.

When you fertilize you must be careful when you do it since the soil should be warm. For the fertilizer to work, it needs certain organisms from the soil to release the nutrients, which the fertilizer possesses.

A few of the most organic fertilizers are fish emulsion, cottonseed, blood meal, manure, compost, and seaweed. Most of the above mentioned fertilizers can be bought, but most of them can actually be made at home.

Fish emulsion is a popular organic fertilizer. It's a combination made mostly of decomposed fish. This is a nitrogen-based fertilizer, and it also includes lots of trace elements that can help the plant grow. Fish emulsion is a beneficial, well-balanced fertilizer.

Cottonseed meal is also a much-used organic fertilizer. It's a byproduct of cotton's production process. It's ideal for acid-loving plants, as it creates an acid reaction in the soil. It usually contains about 7% nitrogen, 3% phosphorus, potash plus 2%. Cottonseed meal is usually used for flowering plants like azaleas plus rhododendrons.

Blood meal is blood that is purchased from cattle slaughterhouses then dried and mixed into powder. It's high nitrogen content, you must be cautious so not to burn the plants. You should never dosed more than the recommended amount, since extra dosage could have a negative effect on your plant. Blood meal is high in some micronutrients such as iron.

Manure is a balanced fertilizer, but it's comparatively low in the nutrients it contains. It's a well-liked fertilizer, but it just is not high in these important nutrients to make it a viable choice for gardeners.

Some people use their sewage sludge as a fertilizer. It's made from recycled material from wastewater treatment plants. You are able to buy activated sludge, which has more nutrients.

Organic gardeners often use seaweed fertilizer in the type of seaweed tea. Dried seaweed is mixed with water and brewed like tea, and then it is used like any other liquid fertilizer. This can be an excellent fertilizer especially that it won't burn plants. It's rich in nutrients.

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Advantages of Using Organic Fertilizers

2012-12-19T02:04:00.000-08:00

These days, there is so much hype about organic fertilizers and its benefits. Most of us who have gotten used to chemical fertilizers are still skeptical whether facts are stretched too much to make it more appealing. Let us take a quick look at some of the advantages of using organic fertilizers so that you can decide whether it is really necessary to switch to organic fertilizer and organic gardening.

Long before the existence of synthetic fertilizers, plants obtained nutrients from decomposed organic matter such as bone, blood, fish and other organic waste, however it was the growth of farming and crop production that brought about so called "need" for synthetic fertilizers. As more research and studies have been conducted, the detrimental effects of chemical fertilizers are being made aware and more people and environmental groups are beginning to tout the advantages of the organic fertilizers that are readily available now.

Probably the most noteworthy advantage of organic fertilizers is the fact that they are mostly insoluble and therefore are slower to release nutrients to the plant. This reduces the leaching effect that results from most chemical fertilizers that causes so many problems. Plants can only uptake so many nutrients at a time and in most cases the plants will not uptake all of the nutrients from a synthetic fertilizer application. Additionally, the likelihood of burning plants due to the overuses is almost non-existent as the overuse of chemical fertilizers can result in the burning and even killing of plants and turf.

Organic fertilizers also help to improve soil quality. Poor soil can only be improved through the introduction of organic matter, which is what organic fertilizer is. The consistent use of chemicals creates plant life dependent upon synthetic fertilization as these fertilizers only work at the plant level. Consequently you may see fluctuations in the vibrance and quality of the plant in between fertilizations. Through the introduction of organic matter and resulting improvement of the soil and stimulation of soil microbial activity, an environment can be created to better support plant life and provide a slow and consistent flow of nutrients to the plant thus creating a harmonious balance between soil and plant.

The other part about using organic fertilizers is selecting the right one as there are so many. Typically organic fertilizers will only be high in one of the 3 key plant nutrients, Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium (NPK). For this reason it is important to understand the needs of your plant to help determine which organic fertilizer or combination of organic fertilizers you should choose to provide the necessary nutrients. Or, you may simply want to add organic fertilizers to improve your soil quality, in which cases there are products better suited for that too.

No matter how you slice it, organic fertilizers are the only option for creating a long lasting and healthy plant/ soil environment that is ecologically responsible economically viable for the long run.

Jeremy Bolton is author of article written on organic fertilizer & organic soil conditioner. For more information, please visit: http://www.naturalenviro.com/Article.php?ArticleSKU=Organic-Fertilizer

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2012-12-15T12:18:00.001-08:00

Garden Design Tips - Organic Fertilizer

2012-12-15T11:35:00.000-08:00

I prefer the use of organic fertilizers due to all of its advantages. So what are the different types of organic fertilizers?

There are many and most are easily accessible so you can start gardening organically in no time. But it would be no fun for me to tell you about all of the ways to fertilize organically, so I am going to only tell about the disgusting methods.

When you peel an orange or a banana, don't throw out the peels or leave them on the ground for someone to slip on because they can be used for compost! This compost serves as an excellent organic fertilizer. Compost protects against pest and diseases, is cost-effective, and helps with habitat restoration efforts.

Other food trimmings can be used in compost as well as yard trimmings, dryer lint, sawdust, and cotton rags among many others including ANIMAL MANURE. You read correctly, animal droppings provide important nutrients and in case you were wondering, human manure is included in this category. Although manure is a rather displeasing way to fertilize your plants, there is an even more disgusting way to do so.

Sewer Sludge! Yes, I use the recycled material from waste-water treatment plants to grow their plants. Advantages of its use include its low cost and easy accessibility for those who liver near waste-water plants. Be careful not to use too much though because toxic levels can rise, thus making it very dangerous.

An almost equally disgusting way to fertilize your plants is through the use of blood meal, which is collected from the blood of cows at a slaughterhouse. At least some other good is coming out of the slaughtering of cows other than the making of hamburgers. After the blood is dried and powdered, care must be taken when using it as a fertilizer as extreme doses can be harmful.

One last unappetizing way to organically fertilize your plants is through the use of fish emulsions. Partly composed of decomposed fish, fish emulsions are an excellent way to keep your plants alive and thriving. So now that you know some rather interesting ways to fertilize your plants organically, get out there and turn your knowledge into action.

I personally enjoy my contribution to the environment as I use organic fertilizers. However, I do have one word of advice: Take a little while before eating.

Thomas Green is an amateur gardener/landscaper and enjoys passing along his garden design tips. You can find him over on his blog at http://www.gardendesigntips.net.

Organic Fertilizing Tips For Your Garden

2012-12-11T21:41:00.000-08:00

Let's start by defining and looking at the word organic. Organic simply means natural. Organic relates to the natural environment. Anything that is natural is organic for instance leaves are natural so they are organic, blood meal which is a by product from animals is organic, even a phosphorus which comes out of the ground is also organic. The key to being successful and doing well in gardening lies in the soil and the best and safest way to improve the soil is through organic fertilizer. Once your soil is good and healthy everything else will fall into place and you will produce very big, healthy, and very tasty vegetables, plants, flowers, and so forth. So the trick is to boost and improve upon your soil, soil nature, soil fertility, and soil composition and the best way to do this is through organic fertilizer.

Improvement of the soil is what organic fertilizer is concerned with and is all about. Chemical based and chemical fertilizers are not as good and effective as organic fertilizers. Chemical fertilizers are very dangerous and bad for the soil and the environment. They tend to remove all the nutrients from the soil, they destroy plants and vegetation, they have an adverse effect on all plant life, and they destabilize the ecosystem and the balance of the soil, and Mother Nature as well. In order to have a very good and thriving garden the soil must be fed with good nutrients. You can also add liquid fertilizer which is great especially during the season of growing. Organic fertilizer contains all the right elements, nutrients and minerals that are need by the soil and plants. The three main ones are nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous.

In order to have a very good and successful garden the soil structure must be good and it must be able to retain water and have pockets of oxygen. Chemical fertilizers cannot help the soil achieve this fertilizer. A great type of organic fertilizer is compost. Compost is very easy and simple to make especially if you have a compost tumbler. With a compost tumbler you can make compost using scraps and leftovers from your kitchen and garden. It is very economical, simple, cheap, and easy to do. Compost is not only the best and simplest form of organic fertilizer but it is also fertilizer that is all purpose and can be used almost anywhere.

Making compost using a compost tumbler is really quite simple and easy you simply put soft and biodegradable things like leaves and various other things into the compost tumbler and then you turn it every two to three days. Pumping the soil and plants with chemicals will not yield the desired results only organic fertilizer will give us simply amazing results. Some examples of other forms and types of organic fertilizer include seaweed, bone meal, lava sand, mulches, chicken manure, gypsum, corn gluten meal, fish emulsion, molasses, humates, Epsom salt, green sand, worm castings, lime, hydrogen peroxide, and various other organic fertilizers. Some of the major benefits of using fertilizer include bigger and stronger plants, plants that are drought, pest, bugs, insect, and disease resistant. Organic fertilizer is very affordable and much cheaper then chemically made and produced fertilizers.

- Becki Andrus has all the information you need about healthy eating habits. Visit her website and find out how you can implement easy, small steps to improve your health and have more energy: http://EverydayHealthGirl.com

Why Should You Switch To Organic Fertilizers?

2012-12-07T17:52:00.000-08:00

Many people still do not realize why organic fertilizers are better for their lawns. Even with all the eco-friendly information out there today, some people just don't understand what organic products are. Organic fertilizers are made from all-natural ingredients. It would only make sense that your landscaping and gardening would fare better with natural products.

Organic fertilizers like Winter Fertilizer or Mineral Blend offer you a safe and natural way to ensure that your lawn and landscaping plants have all the nutrients and minerals that they need to stay healthy. Healthy plants and lawns are naturally more beautiful than plants that are suffering from a serious lack of nutrients.

Some of the main reasons for using organic fertilizers are:

1. Safe for children, pets and the environment: Some chemical fertilizers can be dangerous to your children or pets. It is even possible that the chemicals could get into your water system and contaminate your drinking water.

2. Great for lawns that have been overburdened with chemicals: Chemicals do not always get absorbed the way natural products do. They can build up in your soil and you would never know it without testing the soil. Organic fertilizers do not contain material that is not useful to your soil and plants.

3. Helps soil begin to function properly again: In order to be healthy, your lawn needs good soil to grow in. Healthy soil should have good bacteria and microbes that break down organic material like grass cuttings and twigs. Organic fertilizers help to restore the soil so that it can provide the nutrients that your grass or landscaping plants need.

4. Increases microbial life crucial to plant health: Microbes break down the minerals and organic material into usable products for your plants. Often chemical products kill off the useful microbes which means that you need to keep adding more and more chemicals to make up for them. Organic fertilizers encourage the growth of helpful microbes so that you use less fertilizer and have a healthier lawn.

People are only just beginning to realize how dangerous some of the chemicals--some of which have been in use for decades--are to the planet. The chemicals have damaged the soil that grows crops and has leeched into the water systems, killing off animals and fish.

It is never too late to change the way you fertilize your lawn. Organic products may not be able to reverse the issues caused by chemicals but at least they won't add to the problem.

Each person who switches over to organic fertilizers is helping the Earth to recover from the abuse it has been put through. It may be a slow process, one lawn at a time, but any progress is good. Organic fertilizers can offer you the beautiful green lawns and gorgeous landscaping plants that you want without causing damage to your family or the Earth.

A variety of organic fertilizers are available on my website.

There, you'll find tips and tricks for getting the greenest, fullest lawn possible. You'll also find business packages, tools and equipment for all your lawn care needs, whether you are a homeowner, property manager, or full-time lawn care professional.

Find solutions for all your lawn care issues and needs at http://www.worldoflawncare.com

Chemical Versus Natural Fertilizers

2012-12-03T16:16:00.000-08:00

Many people take pleasure in gardening. They put considerable time and energy into creating pleasant environments around their houses using the very simple elements of seeds, a spade, and fertilizer. A great many people prefer organic fertilizer to the artificial kinds that are manufactured from synthetically produced chemicals. Urea is a good example of such a fertilizer. It is commonly used to promote blooming in plants.

Natural organic fertilizers are so called for obvious reasons. All of the ingredients used to create a natural organic fertilizer actually come from nature. These ingredients include seaweed, manure, guano, fish extract, and composted materials. These types of fertilizers are usually applied to the soil in the form of 'tea.' Advances in how the fertilizers are made means they can also be applied via spray canisters or by pouring them onto the soil. There are several natural organic fertilizers available in the form of liquids.

The most common kind of natural organic fertilizer in a liquid form is fish emulsion. This is made from finely ground fish parts and is very rich in the elements that help plants to grow. It includes several beneficial trace elements as well, including calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and boron. Some manufacturers add other ingredients to their specific brand of fish emulsion. The ingredients they use to enhance the fertilizer include amino acids, vitamins, enzymes, nitrogen, growth hormones, and additional micro and macro nutrients that are found naturally in fish, but that may be lost during synthesis.

Seaweed is very useful and beneficial product from the oceans that has potential as a source of natural organic fertilizer. Extract of seaweed represents a powerhouse of more than sixty amino acids and nutrients. It also contains gibberellins, auxims, and cytokinins. These are substances that encourage the growth and development of plants and improve the color and bloom of flowers.

Crab shells are another important source of natural organic fertilizer. This type of fertilizer is different from fish or seaweed extracts because it is applied in a dry form. Fertilizer made from crab shells has the added benefit of effectively controlling garden pests. Crab shells contain chitin, a source of food for the bacteria that kiss nematodes and fungus.

Home gardeners tend to favor natural organic fertilizers because of their environmental benefits as well. Because they are completely natural, they bring no risks of environmental pollution. In ideal circumstances, natural organic fertilizers will perform better than chemical fertilizers.

Discover more articles and information about the environment and fertilizers [http://environmentadvice.com/organic-fertilizer-in-your-garden.php] at [http://environmentadvice.com]

College 101: The Best Football Stadiums, Easy Dorm Meals and More

2012-11-29T06:24:00.000-08:00

Discover the expert in you.

By Rachel HornAug 21, 2012

The line of fans seemed to extend for miles, wrapping along the perimeter of the stadium. Students covered in cardinal and gold face paint yelled and cheered, reciting odes to their beloved team. Young children in pint-sized jerseys galloped ahead of their grandparents, an older generation of fans sporting team caps worn down by years of loyalty. I stepped past security and through the threshold of the stadium, entering a completely foreign and exciting world. It was the start of freshman year and my first college football game ever. Little did I know that after just one afternoon in the Coliseum, I would join the ranks of those diehard fans for a lifetime.

What’s your favorite college football stadium? Let us know in the comments below!

College-Bound? Get More Pointers:
A Guide to College Admission
Football Tailgating, First and 10
Easy-to-Make Dorm Meals

Read Previous: *NEW* Spark Board Pages Help YOU Shine

Read Next: 22 Home Improvement Tips for the Long Weekend

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NEW Spark Board Pages Help YOU Shine

2012-11-24T15:18:00.000-08:00

Discover the expert in you.

By Garineh MagarianAug 17, 2012

Notice anything different about your Spark boards recently? Well if you haven’t seen it yet, we suggest you hop on over to your Spark profile and check out your fabulous redesigned Spark boards. We know you will be pleasantly surprised to find some exciting new enhancements.

The redesigned Spark boards not only help you keep track of your projects as they come to life, but it also gives you the opportunity to brag a little (or a lot) to all your buddies!

What’s New?

You’ll now find that each of your board pages are arranged in a way that highlights all your hard work. We’ve placed your idea images from the “Dream it” stage into a playful slideshow. By clicking on the arrows, you can see a steady flow of inspirational images that lead you to start and accomplish your project.

Next, we’ve blown up the images in the “Do It” stage to really emphasize the steps you took to complete your project. Your images are more prominent on the page and will show your projects progress step by step.

Want to show off what you have accomplished (of course you do!)? Don’t worry—we’ll help you get the recognition you deserve. You can now pick a specific image that best represents your board for the cover photo. The image you select will also be the display image for any social network on which you choose to share your board. Now you can show off show off your hard work to all your friends (woo hoo!).

Don’t get too settled as the eHow team is constantly working hard to add awesome new features just for you!

Happy Sparking!

Read Previous: 20 Ways to Extend the Summer Fun

Read Next: College 101: The Best Football Stadiums, Easy Dorm Meals and More

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Spooktacular Spark Contest!

2012-11-20T02:47:00.000-08:00

Discover the expert in you.

By Garineh MagarianSep 13, 2012

Goblins and Witches and Zombies, oh my! Halloween is around the corner, and it’s never too early to get crazy with crafts. This holiday inspires an array of spooky, comical, and even hair-raising ideas for decorating and baking, and everything in between. Who can wait to haunt their house or transform their kid into a bloodsucking vampire or pretty little princess?

For all you DIYers, eHow is thrilled to announce our first EVER Spooktacular Spark Contest!

Starting September 24, 2012, upload your Halloween ideas and projects to eHow Spark and enter for your chance to win.

How to enter:

Create your Halloween project on eHow Spark and title it “Spooktacular Spark Contest: (name of project).” It can be a craft, costume, treat, or decoration. The only limitation is your imagination.Tag your Spark board with “Halloween.”Upload photos of your Halloween project to show your progress and final product. We recommend using at least three images in the “Do it” stage and at least one photo for the “Done” phase.Send a link to your completed project to spark@eHow.com no later than November, 1, 2012, 11:59 p.m.

We will select a First, Second, and Third Place winner from the completed boards, submitted by the deadline. Entries will be evaluated on theme, creativity, and original content. All Spark board clips must be original images.

In addition to the pride that comes with completing the coolest Halloween project ever, each winner will receive an American Express gift card to put toward supplies for their next project. Winners will also be featured on the eHow blog, newsletter, and social networks.

Prizes:
First Place: $200.00 American Express Gift Card
Second Place: $100.00 American Express Gift Card
Third Place: $75.00 American Express Gift Card

Here’s the Spark board I made for my Halloween project: Spooktacular Spark Contest: Old Sign.

What project are you excited about for Halloween? Whether you aim to have the spookiest house on the block or make the coolest costume, share your ideas and get the eHow community talking!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Legal residents of the 50 United States 18 years or older. Dates: September 24, 2012 through November 1, 2012. To enter and for Official Rules, including odds of winning, and prize descriptions visit http://www.ehow.com/blog/official-rules-spooktacular-spark-contest/.Void where prohibited.

Read Previous: Official Rules: Spooktacular Spark Contest

Read Next: Fall Fashion Focus: Runway Beauty, Men’s Boots and More

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35 Tips to Celebrate Healthy Aging Month

2012-11-17T02:07:00.000-08:00

Discover the expert in you.

eHoweHow Now Blog35 Tips to Celebrate Healthy Aging Month

By Rachel HornSep 12, 2012

September is Healthy Aging Month, a time to think about ways we can implement positive changes to impact the future. It sounds intimidating, but it’s not about making giant lifestyle adjustments. Simple substitutions and additions to your normal routine could end up making a big difference! I just started walking to work (like really, just started—as in yesterday); it’s a built-in time for exercise that will save me money on gas and will leave me feeling a bit more sane (goodbye, Los Angeles traffic!). From cooking with fresher ingredients to trying out a new sport to wearing sunscreen every day, there are tons of ways to help the future you!

How are you celebrating Healthy Aging Month? Tell us in the comments below!

More Tips to Age Gracefully:
Beyond Your Face: Skin Care 101
Quinoa, The Grain You Should Be Eating
Saving Face: Skin Care Tips for Men

Spark Spotlight:
What’s for dinner? Easy, healthy broiled salmon!

Photo credit: Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images

Read Previous: Time-Saving Tips to Kick Off Fall

Read Next: Official Rules: Spooktacular Spark Contest

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