Made from both natural material and chemicals, fertilizers are used to aid in the production of produce. Fertilizers are intended to enrich the soil. This makes produce grow faster, healthier, and/or larger. There have been many controversies surrounding fertilizers in recent years. These controversies have surrounded the safety of chemical fertilizers.

Inorganic, or synthetic, fertilizers are often chemicals, specifically ammonia. Applied to the fields of corn, barley, soy, etc., these fertilizers can improve soil and increase the size of the vegetation. Because of this, inorganic fertilizers are commonly used, and the use of these fertilizers is rising.

There are several complications to the use of inorganic fertilizers. First, they can cause pollution to water, soil, and air. Inorganic fertilizers can also cause health problems to those who drink the water they contaminate. Fertilizing using inorganic fertilizers can also be problematic because it makes the crops more attractive to certain pests.

Organic fertilizers are made from biodegradable materials. One type of organic fertilizer, compost, can be made from home. Farmers and others who deal with the land may manufacture organic fertilizer. Mineral deposits that are naturally found in the earth can also be an excellent organic fertilizer. Organic fertilizers do not produce some of the same problems associated with inorganic fertilizers.

Fertilizers are beneficial for commercial and personal gardens. Those who wish to purchase fertilizer or the ingredients for composting can do so locally or through the Internet. But fertilizers can be dangerous to work with. Fertilization must also occur at a specific time. Because of this, many choose to purchase fertilizers locally.