NATURAL FERTILIZERS AND PESTICIDES
Natural fertilizers and pesticides are environmentally friendly and sustainable methods used instead of chemical products in agriculture. These methods increase the fertility of the soil while protecting plants from pests and minimizing the negative effects on the ecosystem. Natural products help protect the health of the soil and water by polluting the environment less than chemical alternatives.
Natural Fertilizers
Natural fertilizers are products obtained from organic substances and increase the fertility by nourishing the soil. Natural fertilizers such as animal manure, compost, green manure and worm manure increase the organic matter content of the soil and support the development of microorganisms. These fertilizers enrich the soil in the long term compared to chemical fertilizers and reduce the risk of erosion. In addition, natural fertilizers provide the basic nutrients that plants need and increase the water retention capacity of the soil.
Compost
Compost is a natural fertilizer formed as a result of the decomposition of plant waste, fruit and vegetable residues, tea pulp and similar organic substances. The use of compost feeds the soil while recycling organic waste. In addition, compost provides moisture balance in the soil and helps plant roots become stronger.
Green Manure
Green manure is obtained from plants planted in the soil and mixed with the soil after they reach a certain size. This method supports productivity by increasing the nitrogen content of the soil. Legumes in particular are frequently preferred as green manure because their roots contain nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Green manure also improves the structure of the soil and increases the level of organic matter.
Natural Pesticides
Natural pesticides are products that protect plants from insects, fungi and other pests and do not harm the environment. Natural substances such as vegetable oils, garlic, mint oil, neem oil and soapy water can be used as pesticides. These methods protect both the environment and human health by avoiding the harmful effects of chemical pesticides. Natural pesticides affect only the target pests without disrupting the biological cycle of insects and pests.
Neem Oil
Neem oil obtained from the neem tree is used as a natural insecticide. Neem oil, which prevents insects from feeding and multiplying, is frequently preferred especially in organic farming. While it is effective on harmful insects, it does not negatively affect the life of beneficial insects.
Garlic Spray
Garlic is a powerful plant that repel harmful insects in nature. Garlic sprays repel pests such as aphids and red spiders. It is also environmentally friendly and provides protection against pests without disrupting the natural growth cycle of plants.
Environmental and Agricultural Benefits
The use of natural fertilizers and pesticides reduces the environmental impacts of agricultural production and helps maintain ecosystem balance. Unlike chemical products, natural products ensure that the soil remains healthy in the long term and do not harm water resources. At the same time, they support biodiversity and offer a more sustainable solution against pests in agricultural lands.
Natural fertilizers and pesticides are one of the most important elements of sustainable agricultural practices. They secure the future of agricultural production by offering both environmentally friendly and economical solutions.