Using organic nitrogen fertilisers to improve soil health and increase yields

Abstract

Increasing crop yields is a universal goal but excessive application of fertiliser has brought environmental problems: heavy metals present in mineral fertilisers accumulate in the soil, crops absorb them and they enter the food chain; artificial nitrogen fertilisers are energy-intensive, associated with big GHG emissions and eutrophication. Organic fertilisers are safer and the area under organic farming is increasing steadily. We consider competent application of organic nitrogen fertilisers to improve food security and soil health. Determination of the necessary return of nutrients to the soil is based on the removal of these substances by cultivated plants per yield unit. Diagnostic topsoil samples were used for this purpose and the obtained indicators were entered into the formula for calculating the optimum doses and timing of applications of organic fertilisers, which were then applied, in defined stages, to crops in the field.