By Destiny Uko
Chemical fertilisers have been the go-to solution for boosting crop yields across the globe. While effective in the short term, their long-term effects on soil fertility and human health have raised genuine concerns.
In response, more farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs are turning toward eco-friendly alternatives that enrich the soil naturally without compromising food safety or the environment. Here are some alternatives to chemical fertilisers that are effective and sustainable.
Compost
One of the most widely known natural fertilisers, this is formed with organic waste such as food scraps, leaves, and animal manure. These are deposited into the soil to make nutrient-rich soil matter.
This reduces household and farm waste and provides plants with all the nutrients required. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), compost also boosts soil health, promotes water retention, and ultimately leads to a bumper harvest, making it the secret ingredient of organic farming.
Green Manure
Another natural option is green manure, which involves planting specific crops like legumes or clover and then plowing them back into the soil. These plants naturally fix nitrogen from the atmosphere into the soil, replenishing one of the main nutrients crops need to thrive.
Animal manure
This is yet another viable option that has long proven its efficiency. Cow dung, poultry droppings, and goat manure, among others, are rich in nutrients that support plant growth. When properly applied, manure provides fertility and introduces beneficial properties that improve soil health.
Biofertilisers
These modern and highly sustainable alternatives are made from helpful bacteria and fungi that aid plant growth. In lieu of chemicals, farmers grow these organisms in special conditions and mix them into materials like compost or liquids.
When added to the soil or seeds, biofertilisers supply essential nutrients to plants. They also improve soil health over time and make crops yield better without causing hazards.
Crop rotation
When crops are rotated at intervals, farmers can naturally prevent soil exhaustion and nutrient loss. For instance, alternating cereal crops with legumes restores nitrogen to the soil, minimising the need for external fertiliser input.
Wood ash
While overlooked by most farmers, wood ash contains potassium and calcium, two essential mineral nutrients that boost plant growth. In certain rural areas, wood ash is sprinkled around crops like tomatoes and maize to boost yields naturally.
Across Africa, the shift toward organic fertilisers has been supported by local organisations and initiatives. For instance, the Nigeria Organic Agriculture Network (NOAN) promotes organic farming practices and provides training for farmers on composting, biofertiliser use, and soil-friendly farming.
Similarly, the Farmers Development Union (FADU) supports small-scale farmers with knowledge and resources to adopt sustainable practices that upscale yields without reliance on chemicals.
Another initiative, Sustainable Farmers Academy, educates rural farmers about the benefits of natural fertilisers and safe farming practices.
Ultimately, transitioning from chemical to organic fertilisers ensures the protection of human health and ensures long-term agricultural productivity.
Farmers who adopt these soil-friendly practices often find that while results may take longer compared with chemical fertilisers, the benefits are safer and more sustainable.
As the world grapples with climate change, soil degradation, and the need for safer food, the call for sustainable farming practices has never been more urgent. The above-listed alternatives to chemical fertilisers guarantee an improved soil, healthier people, and a greener planet.
Chemical fertilizers, while effective for boosting short-term crop yields, pose long-term risks to soil fertility and human health. Consequently, there's a growing shift towards sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives. Compost, made from organic waste, reduces household and farm waste while improving soil health and promoting water retention. Green manure, involving the planting of specific crops like legumes to be plowed back into the soil, enhances nitrogen levels naturally. Animal manure and biofertilizers, which utilize beneficial bacteria and fungi, both support plant growth and improve soil health without harmful chemicals.
Crop rotation helps prevent soil exhaustion and nutrient loss, while wood ash, rich in potassium and calcium, enhances plant growth. Initiatives across Africa, such as the Nigeria Organic Agriculture Network and the Farmers Development Union, support the move towards organic fertilizers by promoting education and resource-sharing among farmers.
Transitioning to natural fertilisers not only safeguards human health but also ensures long-term agricultural productivity. Although results may take more time compared to chemical fertilizers, the overall outcome is safer, securing a greener planet amidst the challenges of climate change, soil degradation, and the increasing demand for sustainable food practices.
