cycl
tips & tricks
L a c
T
While the ingredient
list seems like an
obvious factor in
determining whether
a fertilizer is
sustainable, it isn’t
the only aspect you
must look at.
100
grow cycle
he general mindset is that the ingredients are the most important factor in
determining whether a fertilizer can be considered sustainable. While there is
no doubt that the ingredients play a major part in the level of sustainability of
a given fertilizer, it doesn’t stop there. We must also consider how we use said
fertilizer, as well as our method of waste disposal.
It is important to keep in mind that “sustainable” does not necessarily mean
the same thing as “organic” or “natural.” Within the realm of modern growing,
sustainability refers to how well the inputs and processes of a grow m aintain an
adequate level of production to meet demand while preserving the integrity of
the environment and protecting consumers. It is driven by a minimalist approach
of using only what is needed to reduce waste.
Ingredients
Those advocates of the organics movement would say it’s important for a
sustainable fertilizer to be made of organic materials. While that’s not necessar-
ily false, you must remember that organic isn’t the same as sustainable. When
measuring the sustainability of a product, you also must consider the potential
toxic trace elements contained in the fertilizer’s ingredients. Take organic rock
phosphate, one of the most ubiquitous sources of phosphate-based fertilizers, for
example. This ingredient can contain high levels of arsenic. If not used properly,
fertilizers containing it can possibly cause the accumulation of heavy metals.
Growers should also be conscientious of their waste management practices to
help preserve the environment (more on that below).