Introduction
Farming success depends on healthy soil, proper seed selection, and effective nutrient management. While adding manure and fertilisers is a common way to boost crop yields, it is important to understand what is manure and how it differs from fertilisers. Both approaches have benefits and drawbacks, influencing crop production, soil organisms, and farm sustainability. In this article, we will discuss the difference between manure and fertiliser, explore disadvantages of manure and fertilisers, and explain why do farmers use fertilisers instead of manure in certain situations.
What are Manure and Fertiliser?
Manure is an organic substance obtained from natural sources like decomposed plant waste, animal excreta, and other organic residues. it contains essential nutrients and improves soil structure. However, it usually releases nutrients slowly.
Fertilisers, on the other hand, are primarily manufactured or chemically synthesised to provide targeted nutrients. They typically offer quick results and are often formulated to contain specific amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK).
Difference Between Manure and Fertilisers in Tabular Form
Below is the difference between manure and fertilisers (5 points) to highlight their main distinctions:
When asked to write the difference between manure and fertilisers, it is also important to consider other factors such as labour requirements, storage, and application techniques.
What is the Difference Between Fertiliser and Manure?
Nutrient Content: Fertilisers often have higher nutrient concentrations, whereas manure delivers a broad spectrum of nutrients but in lower amounts.
Effect on Soil Biology: Manure nurtures soil microbes and structure, while chemical fertilisers might harm beneficial microorganisms if overused.
Speed of Action: Fertilisers are fast-acting, while manure takes time to decompose and release nutrients.
Why Do Farmers Use Fertilisers Instead of Manure?
There are situations where farmers prefer fertilisers over manure. One primary reason is the quick nutrient release offered by fertilisers, helping plants grow faster. Farmers may also choose specific nutrient combinations tailored to crop needs. In large-scale farming, using only manure can be challenging because it is bulkier, may not be readily available in sufficient quantities, and may require more labour to transport and apply.
Adding Manure and Fertilisers Together
Some farmers combine manure with fertilisers to strike a balance between immediate nutrient supply and long-term soil health. Manure improves soil structure and microbial balance, while fertilisers ensure crops get enough nutrients during critical growth stages.
Disadvantages of Manure and Fertilisers
Disadvantages of Manure
Nutrient content is variable and may be insufficient for high-demand crops without additional supplements.
Decomposition releases nutrients slowly, which can delay early crop growth.
Large volumes are needed, increasing transportation and labour costs.
Disadvantages of Fertilisers
Overuse can cause soil pollution and harm beneficial soil microbes.
Chemical runoff can pollute nearby water sources.
Long-term dependence can reduce soil’s natural fertility.
Understanding these disadvantages of manure and fertilisers allows farmers to apply them wisely, ensuring healthy crops and sustainable farming practices.
What is the Difference Between Manure and Biofertiliser?
Biofertilisers are preparations containing living microorganisms that help fix nutrients like nitrogen in the soil. While manure is essentially decomposed organic matter, biofertilisers are actively involved in nutrient cycling. Incorporating biofertilisers alongside manure can enhance soil microbial diversity, boost plant nutrition, and reduce the need for chemical inputs.
Additional Insights and Unique Tips
Vermicomposting: Earthworms break down organic matter into nutrient-rich vermicompost, providing a potent form of manure.
Crop Rotation: Planting legumes or other nitrogen-fixing crops in rotation helps maintain soil fertility naturally.
Green Manuring: Growing and ploughing legume crops directly into the field enriches the soil with organic matter and nutrients.
Quick Quiz (With Answers)
1. Which nutrient in fertilisers promotes leafy growth?
Answer: Nitrogen
2. Name one method of improving soil naturally without chemical fertilisers.
Answer: Crop rotation or vermicomposting
3. Give one reason farmers might prefer fertilisers over manure.
Answer: Fertilisers act more quickly and can be tailored to specific nutrient requirements.
4. Name the bacteria commonly found in the root nodules of legumes that fix nitrogen.
Answer: Rhizobium
FAQs on Difference Between Manure and Fertiliser
1. How often should manure be applied to maintain soil fertility?
It depends on the crop’s nutrient demands and soil conditions. Most farmers add manure once or twice a year, often before planting or after harvest.
2. Can continuous use of chemical fertilisers reduce soil quality?
Yes, if used excessively or incorrectly, chemical fertilisers may decrease soil fertility over time by harming beneficial microbes.
3. Is it possible to use both manure and biofertilisers together?
Yes, combining manure and biofertilisers can enhance soil structure, microbial activity, and nutrient availability in a more sustainable way.
4. Does manure have any immediate effect on plant growth?
Manure generally releases nutrients slowly, so it might not offer an immediate boost in plant growth. However, its long-term benefits to soil health are significant.
5. Are organic fertilisers different from manure?
Organic fertilisers can be derived from plant or animal waste, similar to manure, but they may undergo additional processing to ensure consistent nutrient levels.
6. What safety precautions should be taken when handling manure?
Wear gloves and a mask if needed, as manure can contain harmful pathogens. Wash hands thoroughly after handling, especially before eating or drinking.
