BIO FERTILIZERS
A bio fertilizer is a substance which contains living
microorganisms which, when applied to plant surfaces, or soil, colonizes the
interior of the plant and promotes growth by increasing the supply or
availability of primary nutrients to the host plant. Microorganisms convert
complex organic material in simple compounds, so that plants are easily taken
up.
Bio-fertilizers add nutrients through the natural processes of nitrogen
fixation, solubilizing phosphorus, and stimulating plant growth through the
synthesis of growth-promoting substances. Through the use of bio-fertilizers,
healthy plants can be grown, while enhancing the sustainability and the health
of the soil. Bio-fertilizers do not contain any chemicals which are harmful to
the living soil. Microorganisms convert
complex organic material in simple compounds, so that plants are easily taken
up. Microorganism function is in long
duration, causing improvement of the soil fertility. It maintains the natural
habitat of the soil. It increases crop yield, replaces chemicals and stimulates
plant growth. It can also provide protection against drought and some
soil-borne diseases. Bio-fertilizers are cost-effective relative to chemical
fertilizers. They have lower manufacturing costs, especially regarding nitrogen
and phosphorus use.
Some Bio-fertilizers are
- Azolla
- Rhizobium
- Cyanobacteria
- Mycoriza
- Azotobacter