Question

Compare the use of manure and fertilizers in maintaining soil fertility.

Answer 1

Manure:

1. Manure is an organic waste that is used as a natural organic fertilizer in agriculture.
2. These come from dead and decaying plants and animals.
3. These are prepared on the farm and are cheap and more cost-effective in comparison to fertilizers.

Fertilizers:

1. Fertilizers are chemical substances that are sprayed on crops to increase output.
2. These are chemicals that are applied to the soil to increase its fertility and crop yield.
3. These are created at a factory and are man-made as well as quite costly and expensive.

Comparison between manure and fertilizers on the basis of their usage to maintain soil fertility:

Manure	Fertilizers
1. They add humus to the soil which is a dark and thick organic liquid that increases the fertility of the soil.	1. Fertilizers do not provide humus to the soil because they contain inorganic components.
2. Manures contain just trace amounts of plant nutrients.	2. They are loaded with plant nutrients.
3. Plants take a long time to absorb manures.	3. They are rapidly absorbed by plants.
4. They have no harmful impact on organisms and help to improve soil quality.	4. They have an impact on soil organisms and can cause health issues in people who eat the produce.