ALTERNATIVES
TO ADDING NPK
FERTILIZERS
The acronym "NPK" refers to the ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus and
potassium present in the fertilizer. Many people refer to synthetic
fertilizers that contain these three critical elements as NPK
fertilizers, but chemical formulations aren’t your only option.
There are several organic fertilizers you can add instead of chemical
formulas. Some of these NPK fertilizer alternatives also contain trace
elements and organic material that improve your soil structure and
texture.
Alfalfa Pellets
Alfalfa pellets are used as animal feed, and they also increase organic
matter in the soil. As an NPK fertilizer alternative, alfalfa pellets
boast a nitrogen-to-phosphorous-to-potassium ratio of 2-1-2 and also
contain trianconatol, which is a natural fatty-acid growth stimulant.
Alfalfa pellets, however, may contain weed seeds, which can sprout in
your garden and will have to be removed. When fertilizing with alfalfa
pellets, mix 2 to 5 pounds of pellets into every 100 square feet of soil.
Animal Manure
Manure is a complete NPK alternative but is fairly low in terms of the
nutrients it supplies to your soil. Manures vary in nutrient content
depending on the animal source, but a rate of 1-1-1 is common. The
nutrient rate tends to be higher in fresh manures, but fresh manure
should not be applied to tender plant roots. In most situations, manure
is more effective as a soil conditional than as a fertilizer. When
applying manure to your soil, follow the label directions for applications
rates. Typical rates vary widely, with some manure applied at a rate of
70 pounds per 1,000 square feet to others applied at rates as high as 500
pounds per 1,000 square feet.
Bat Guano
Bat guano, the feces of wild bats, is harvested from bat caves. It is sold
in powder form and may be one of two types. The first is high in nitrogen,
typically containing an NPK ratio of 10-3-1. The second is high in phosphorous,
containing an NPK ratio of 3-10-1. Bat guano is mixed directly into the soil
at a rate of 5 pounds guano for every 100 square feet soil.
Cottonseed Meal
Cottonseed meal is a byproduct of cotton manufacturing and is sometimes used
as a fertilizer. Cottonseed meal is slightly acidic, and formulas typically
contain NPK ratios of 7-3-2. Like chemical fertilizers, cottonseed meal is
readily available to plants in warm soils, but with cottonseed meal there is
little risk of nitrogen burn. This NPK fertilizer alternative is ideal for
fertilizing acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons and azaleas, but make
sure you purchase pesticide-free formulations. Apply cottonseed meal by
mixing it into the soil at a rate of 10 pounds per 100 square feet.
Fish Emulsions
Fish emulsion is a complete NPK fertilizer alternative that consists of a
partially decomposed mixture of pulverized fish. The odor is intense after
application, but it does fade within a day or two. Fish emulsion fertilizers
typically contain NPK ratios of 5-2-2 and are also a good source of trace
elements. Fish emulsion is usually applied as a foliar spray at a rate of
about 6 tablespoons fertilizer mixed with 1 gallon of water. Apply fish
emulsion fertilizers in the late spring, when plants have sprouted. Follow
with a deep watering to encourage growth. Because it is rich in nitrogen,
do not apply more fish emulsion than is recommended on the label to avoid
burning your plants.
Alternatives to
Adding NPK Fertilizers
https://homeguides.sfgate.com/alternatives-adding-npk-fertilizers-41792.html
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The Internet
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