Question

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

Answer 1

Manure adds nutrients to the soil without affecting its fertility. Fertilizers are chemicals that lower the fertility of the soil if used regularly.

Advantages of manure

• It increases the water-holding capacity of the soil.
• It makes the soil porous and facilitates the exchange of gases.
• The texture of the soil improves.
• The number of microbes increases in the soil.

Advantages of fertilizers

• They are quick in providing plant nutrients and restoring soil fertility.
• They are portable and easy to transport.
• Plants easily absorb fertilizers.
• Fertilizers improve and increase the productivity of many crops such as wheat, maize, and rice.