Question

(i) Define fertilizers and manures.

(ii) State two limitations of manures.

(iii) Write two advantages of fertilizers over manures.

Answer 1

(i)

1. Fertilizers: Fertilizers are the chemical substances that are supplied to the crops to increase their productivity.
2. They are used by farmers to increase crop yield.
3. Manures: Manure is the decomposed form of dead plants and animals, which is supplied to the soil to increase production.

(ii) Limitation of manures:

1. Storage and transport of fertilizers aren't easy because they are voluminous and bulky.
2. Manures are not nutrient specific.
3. Manures are not able to fulfill the high and rapid demand for nutrients in the soil, they have low nutrient content.

(iii) Advantages of fertilizers over manures:

1. Fertilizers are very rich in plant nutrients.
2. Fertilizers are quick in providing plant nutrients and restoring soil fertility.
3. They are easy to transport and portable.