Organic farming does not include chemical fertilizers

Organic farming is a method of agricultural production that focuses on sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. It aims to minimize the use of synthetic inputs and relies on natural processes and materials to maintain soil fertility and control pests and diseases. One of the key principles of organic farming is to avoid the use of chemical fertilizers, as they are considered harmful to the environment and human health.

Explanation:

1. Crop rotation:
Crop rotation is a common practice in organic farming. It involves growing different crops in a specific sequence on the same piece of land over time. Crop rotation helps to break pest and disease cycles, improve soil fertility, and prevent soil erosion. By rotating crops, organic farmers can reduce the need for synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.

2. Green manures:
Green manures are crops that are grown specifically to be incorporated into the soil to improve its fertility. These crops are usually legumes, such as clover or vetch, which have the ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere and make it available to other plants. Green manures help to increase organic matter content in the soil, improve soil structure, and provide nutrients for subsequent crops.

3. Compost and farmyard manures:
Compost and farmyard manures are organic materials that are added to the soil to improve its fertility. Compost is made from decomposed plant and animal matter, while farmyard manure is a mixture of animal waste and bedding materials. These organic amendments provide essential nutrients, improve soil structure, enhance water holding capacity, and promote beneficial soil organisms. They are considered the main source of nutrients in organic farming systems.

4. Chemical fertilizers:
Chemical fertilizers are synthetic substances that are manufactured specifically to provide essential nutrients to plants. They are typically formulated with high concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. While chemical fertilizers can provide a quick boost of nutrients to crops, their excessive and improper use can lead to negative environmental impacts. They can contribute to water pollution, soil degradation, and loss of biodiversity. In organic farming, the use of chemical fertilizers is strictly prohibited.

In conclusion, organic farming excludes the use of chemical fertilizers and instead focuses on practices such as crop rotation, green manures, and the application of compost and farmyard manures to maintain soil fertility and promote sustainable agriculture.