What is the Difference Between NPK Fertiliser and Manure

When it comes to spring, most people start to think about their gardens and allotments. Indeed, this is the time that plants start to come out of their dormant state with higher temperatures and sunshine, and this is when they begin to grow again. But, this is only going to be true if they are able to get the nutrients they need. They have to be present in the soil, as well as there being enough water to deliver them. 

If you want to give your plants a good start, you might be looking into ways to improve the soil. This can be a good move if the soil is old or your plants are struggling to thrive. Two things you are likely to have come across are NPK fertilisers and manure. Is there a difference between these two things, and are you better off choosing one over the other for your plants? Let’s take a closer look.

What is NPK Fertiliser?

Are you familiar with what NPK fertiliser is? Most people know that fertiliser helps your plant to grow. But, when it comes to NPK, beginners are not sure what this stands for. Well, this is short for nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. These are classed as essential and very important nutrients for most plants.

Note that NPK fertilisers can have different ratios. For example, they could be balanced at 20-20-20. This is going to indicate that there is 20 per cent nitrogen, 20 per cent phosphorus and 20 per cent potassium in the fertiliser. You can take a look at Dejex NPK fertilisers to get a better idea of what types of products are available. Something you want to do is investigate how much of a certain nutrient your plants need, and you can choose a suitable NPK fertiliser.

What are the Benefits of Using NPK Fertiliser?

There are many advantages to using NPK fertiliser on the plants you are growing. Let’s break it down and take a look.

Good Plant Growth

When you choose the right NPK fertiliser, this means that you can sit back and watch your plants grow. Indeed, you are providing them with the right nutrients that are necessary for healthy growth.

Choose Fast or Slow-Release

With NPK fertilisers, you are able to decide whether you want a product that shows results fast or gradual results. The beauty of fertiliser is you can select one that is suitable for your needs. Some people like the fast results and to apply them often. Others prefer a slow-releasing product to have minimal work to do. 

Predictable Yields

People that are growing crops as part of a business want stable and predictable yields. They believe this is something that you can get from using NPK fertiliser. You know you are delivering the right nutrients to the soil for what you are growing, which allows you to calculate your yields every season.

What is Manure?

First of all, let’s start by answering the question. What exactly is manure? Simply, this is animal dung. A lot of it is collected from livestock farming, and later, it can be used and sold as a type of natural fertiliser. Therefore, it is a type of waste material, and it is considered an organic substance you can apply to the soil.

What are the Benefits of Using Manure?

Manuring is something that can be advantageous when you are growing certain plants. Here are some of the benefits that exist from using manure.

A Natural Product

Many people like the fact that manure is made naturally. Of course, it is animal dung, which means there are no chemicals used. So, people like the fact that this is going to be applied to their plants. They do not have to worry about damage even if they use too much.

Slowly Releases Nutrients

It can take a while for manure to break down in the soil. This means that you only have to apply it once or twice during the growing season. For example, it can take around four months for manure to break down.

Can Help the Soil

Some people do not realise that manure can do more than just add nutrients to the soil. It can also help with its structure. For example, if you have clay soil, you will know that drainage can be poor. Adding manure can be a way to help with this. In addition, if you have a sandy soil, manure can increase the water that it can hold, which might help plants grow.

What are Some Concerns about Using Manure?

Let’s be honest, some people are wary about using manure. They do not like the thought of using manure on plants they are going to be eating. Something very concerning for home growers is the fact that manure can smell. If you have close neighbours, it is unlikely you will want to use this. In addition, many growers say that you are going to need a significant amount of manure in order to provide nutrients to plants.

Should I Choose NPK Fertiliser or Manure?

You might be in a position where you do not know whether you should buy NPK fertiliser or manure. The answer is going to depend on what you are growing, where you are going it and what you want to achieve. So, here are some things you should consider.

First, consider what you are growing. You might find that the plants need a delicate blend of different nutrients, and it will be easier to find a fertiliser that guarantees these ratios. Indeed, it can add some predictability to your growing.

But, if you are in a position where you are looking for an organic and slow-releasing substance, you can consider manure. Just make sure that you are able to handle the smell and consider where you are growing the plants. The results you get will be less predictable. But, you might like the idea of using a natural product.