Fertiliser vs. compost: key differences explained

Understanding fertiliser types and benefits

Fertilisers are essential for promoting plant growth and are available in various formulations to meet a wide range of agricultural needs. There are two broad types of fertilisers: natural and chemical. Natural fertilisers are derived from decomposed plants, animals, and other organic materials and release nutrients slowly, enriching the soil with organic matter and supporting microbial activity. Chemical fertilisers, on the other hand, are synthetically manufactured to provide a quick supply of specific nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, ensuring immediate availability to plants but often at the expense of long-term soil health.

The role of compost in agriculture

Compost is created from a range of organic materials, including yard trimmings, food waste, leaves, and wood chips, and is rich in beneficial microorganisms. As compost nourishes and develops, it improves soil structure and the ability of soil to retain water and nutrients. This makes compost an invaluable asset for long-term soil health and supports plant growth for crops, large-scale agricultural projects, and more. Regular use of compost can gradually improve soil quality for major vegetable garden endeavours and crops, fostering a thriving population of soil bacteria and promoting a sustainable growing environment.

Comparing impact on soil health

While chemical fertilisers can provide a quick fix for nutrient-deficient plants, they often fall short in sustaining the soil’s health over time. Although organic fertiliser is a lot healthier than its synthetic counterparts, its purpose is to improve plant growth rather than improve soil structure. Compost, on the other hand, continues to give back to the soil, supporting plant growth by slowly releasing a steady nutrient supply into the soil and maintaining an ecological balance that supports effective water conservation and disease prevention in crops. 

The long-term economic value of compost in large-scale farming

Balancing the immediate affordability of chemical fertilisers against the lasting benefits of compost can be complex. Although chemical fertilisers are initially less expensive and easy to apply, compost’s long-term advantages, such as improved soil health and reduced dependence on future fertilisers, can lead to significant savings. Compost not only encourages healthy plants and improves the quality of crop yield but also revitalises the soil for subsequent planting, proving its value season after season.

How Carbon Plus Compost can help you make the right choice for your agricultural needs

Selecting the appropriate product for your operations involves a careful analysis of your specific needs and future goals. Overall, compost is a more suitable choice for large-scale agricultural projects and farming properties that prioritise soil health and crop yield, but it’s recommended that you speak to professionals who have the expertise and knowledge for all things compost and soil health. 

The Carbon Plus Compost team can help you out and ensure you receive the right product for your farming practices and achieve long-term success. Get in contact with our team today to receive personalised guidance and product recommendations suited to your needs.