What is the difference between organic and synthetic fertilizers?
Most fertilizers are comprised of water-soluble nitrogen. This is quickly available to the plant and released into the lawn. These fertilizers will quickly green up the lawn, and need seasonal and yearly applications. From a cost stand point, synthetic fertilizers are less expensive then organic fertilizers. Pure organic fertilizers are slow release blends and only release the nitrogen as microbial activity occurs. The lawn stays green for a longer period of time, which is better for the lawn. Organic fertilizes also stimulate microbial activity which is beneficial in preventing fungus invasions and decomposing thatch. A major component in synthetic blends is sodium nitrate, a salt containing 26% sodium. We have high salt soils in Colorado so sodium nitrate is a product that adds to the problem instead of addressing the high salt issue. Organic fertilizers have low salt products that help balance the soil’s pH. Additionally, synthetic fertilizers are derived from petroleum products, wh
