People are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental bandage needed for the planet Earth to survive.  Recently, garden centers have begun to carry a number of ‘organic’ mixtures, heralded as formulated to help keep the environment green.

Many assume ‘organic’ foods are better and safer, environmentally.  In reality, this is not necessarily correct.  Plants require nitrogen, phosphorus and potash to survive.  Environmentally conscious individuals have labeled conventional plant foods and fertilizers containing these elements chemical products – products that harm the environment.  The fact is all fertilizers, conventional and organic, must contain these nutrients for a plant or lawn to remain healthy.

Plants fed only cow manure will receive less than 1 % of nitrogen, phosphorus and potash.  Unprocessed blood or bone meal can improve the percentages; however, concern is raised in regard to excess feeding.  Plants will use only what it requires – with excess chemicals leeching into the environment.  It does not matter whether the ‘chemicals’ are from conventional fertilizers or organic supplements, the end result is the same.– What is an environmentally-friendly gardener to do?

Conventional ‘slow-release’ fertilizers are the answer to this problem.  And using them actually has an advantage over the use of those referenced, ‘organic.’  These fertilizers are designed to release nutrients slowly, giving plants and lawns their required allotments over extended periods of time.  With respect to the nitrogen component, the risk of it leeching into the groundwater is lowered significantly; therefore, making this planet just a little healthier.