Although the terms compost and fertilizer are often used interchangeably, there are distinct differences that are essential to understanding how to effectively improve soil health and promote plant growth.
What is the difference between compost and fertilizer?
Basic definitions
- Compost: These are generally organic matter, such as compost, manure or plant debris, which decompose in the soil over time. Their main function is to improve soil structure, increasing its capacity to retain water and nutrients, while gradually providing nutrients to plants.
- Fertilizers: They can be organic or inorganic and contain specific nutrients needed for plant growth, such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. They are designed to be absorbed quickly by plants, which can boost their growth more immediately than fertilizers.
Difference between composting and fertilizing
Composting involves adding organic material to the soil to improve its overall long-term quality. In contrast, fertilizing refers to the act of providing specific nutrients to plants, usually in forms that are easily accessible and quick for the plant to use.
Practical application
The choice between compost and fertilizer depends on the immediate needs of your plants and the condition of your soil. If the goal is to improve overall soil health over the long term, compost is the best choice. For specific nutritional needs or quick results, such as in intensive farming or in gardens with plants with high nutritional demands, fertilizers may be more appropriate.BH Terra understands these differences and offers both compost and organic fertilizers to meet various agricultural and gardening needs. For more details about their products and how they can help you improve the productivity of your crops, we invite you to explore their online catalog. Here you will find a variety of options to suit different types of soils and plants, ensuring that each customer finds exactly what they need for their particular situation.