Question

Distinguish between fertilizer and manure. Give suitable examples. What are advantages and disadvantages of using fertilizer?

Answer 1

The differences between fertilizer and manure have been summarised as follows:

Fertilizer	Manure
1. Fertilizer is a synthetic compound which can be inorganic or organic.	1. Manure is a natural compound formed by the decomposition of natural substances.
2. It has a relatively higher concentration of essential nutrients such as phosphorous, nitrogen and potassium.	2. The concentration of essential nutrients is comparatively lesser in manures.
3. They do not contribute to the formation of humus.	3. They contribute to the formation of humus.
4. They are costly and are prepared in factories.	4. They are cheap and can be prepared in home or fields.
5. Examples of fertilizers are urea, ammonium nitrate and sulphate of potash.	5. Some of the examples of manure are vegetable waste and compost.

The advantages of using fertilizers are as follows:
1. High nutrient specificity
2. Readily absorbed by the plants

The disadvantages of using fertilizers are as follows:
1. Reduction of soil fertility
2. Adverse affects on the soil microbes