Avid farmers and gardeners are all too familiar with how much the health of their plants depends on the soil quality and nutrients they receive. And with several compositions touted as effective sources of nutrients, there is always the need to consider eco-friendly and sustainable options. That’s where organic fertilizers come in, providing a safer and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical fertilizers.

Like other fertilizers, liquid organic fertilizers contain essential nutrients that help enrich the soil and promote plant growth. However, their composition, weight, and potential for leakage can make the shipping process challenging. Hence, this article delves into liquid organic fertilizers and explores the best practices to ensure this vital resource’s safe and efficient transport.

What is a Liquid Organic Fertilizer?

As the name suggests, these fertilizers are in liquid form. They combine natural materials, such as compost, animal manure, and seaweed, with water to create a nutrient-rich solution. The state of these organic fertilizers makes it such that plants can easily absorb essential nutrients quicker than solid ones.

Liquid organic fertilizers help to improve soil structure and promote beneficial microorganisms in the soil, which can help to increase plant health and productivity. Additionally, they are often more environmentally friendly than synthetic fertilizers and do not contribute to pollution or harm beneficial insects and other organisms.

Chemical Composition of Liquid Organic Fertilizers

Agricultural professionals always look for ways to promote healthy plant growth and maximize harvest. One option to consider has always been liquid organic fertilizers. These nutrient-rich solutions combine several natural materials that farmers can customize to meet a plant’s exact needs.

Exploring the chemical composition of liquid organic fertilizers is crucial to comprehending how these solutions work. Typically, they contain various elements; however, the key components include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, trace elements, and growth promoters. 

Nitrogen

Nitrogen (N) is a significant component of most liquid fertilizers as it is vital for plant growth. This essential nutrient is responsible for leaf formation and plant growth, making it the most crucial nutrient for plant growth.

This element plays a crucial role in forming proteins that make up the plant tissues and aids in the growth of leaves, stems, and other plant organs. As a result, plants tend to absorb nitrogen more than other elements in the soil. However, excessive amounts of nitrogen in the soil can lead to a rise in the population of pests and insects, which can have a detrimental effect on the growth and development of flowers.

Additionally, such high nitrogen levels can impede the reproductive processes of the plant, leading to a reduction in the yield of fruits and other crops. Liquid organic fertilizers can contain nitrogen from plant-based materials, such as alfalfa or soybean meal, animal manure, compost tea, and fish emulsion, to mention a few.

Phosphorus

After water and nitrogen, phosphorus is the next most critical nutrient plants require for their growth and development. This nutrient is essential for several vital plant functions, including cell division and growth. Phosphorus is crucial in photosynthesis and energy transfer within the plant, enabling it to produce and store energy efficiently.

In the case of fruit-producing plants, phosphorus plays a critical role in the fruit production cycle. A phosphorus deficiency can cause severely stunted growth and hinder plant germination. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure plants have an adequate supply of phosphorus to support their growth and development.

Liquid organic fertilizers can derive their phosphorus from a variety of sources. One common source is bone meal, which is made by grinding up animal bones into fine powder. Other sources of phosphorus include naturally occurring rock phosphate, fish emulsion, chicken manure, compost tea, and bat guano.

Potassium

Potassium (K) is the third of the big three (NPK). However, its importance is often overlooked compared to other elements. Nonetheless, it is crucial for strengthening plants and improving their resistance to stress, diseases, and extreme weather conditions. 

Potassium also facilitates the opening and closing of stomata during photosynthesis, which regulates the plant’s response to light, and improves the stem rigidity. A potassium deficiency can decrease the plant’s ability to resist diseases, making it more susceptible to infections and other plant-related problems. 

One primary source of potassium in liquid organic chemicals is wood ash, a byproduct of burning wood or plant material. Aside from potassium, wood ash also contains other essential nutrients like calcium and magnesium. Other sources include kelp meal, banana peels, and compost tea from plant matter rich in potassium.

Trace Elements

Trace elements are crucial for plant growth and development. Although required in smaller amounts than macronutrients, they play a significant role in several essential plant functions. Trace elements assist in enzyme and hormone development, which are necessary for the plant’s growth and metabolism.

They also contribute to soil fertility, strengthening cell membranes and correcting micronutrient deficiencies. The trace elements present in liquid organic fertilizers include the following;

• Molybdenum: Molybdenum is an electrocatalyst in the nitrogen reduction process in plants. It is also used to convert inorganic phosphorus into organic forms in plants.

• Copper: Copper assists in the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins. Copper acts as a catalyst in plant respiration and photosynthesis. It also intensifies flavor and color in vegetables and color in flowers.

• Zinc: Zinc is essential for many metabolic reactions in plants. It contributes to chlorophyll formation. It also helps regulate proteins and enzymes in plants.

• Iron: This element is essential as it helps transport oxygen to all plant parts. Without iron, plants will not be able to produce chlorophyll. This condition leads to chlorosis, a state where green leaves turn yellow. Iron also assists in nitrogen-fixing.

• Manganese: Manganese contributes to photosynthesis, respiration, pollen germination, and root cell elongation. It also assists iron in producing chlorophyll.

• Boron: Boron is essential in cell wall development. It assists in moving calcium within the plants. It also helps maintain the strength of biological membranes.

Growth Promoters

Liquid organic fertilizers can contain various growth-promoting substances that help plants grow and develop. Some growth promoters found in these solutions include amino acids, enzymes, plant hormones, and beneficial microorganisms.

Growth promoters in liquid organic fertilizers can help to improve plant growth, yield, and quality by enhancing nutrient uptake, stimulating root growth, and increasing plant resistance to stress. Some familiar sources of growth promoters in liquid organic fertilizers include humic and fulvic acid, seaweed extracts, fish emulsion, molasses, and amino acids.

Applying Liquid Organic Fertilizers.

Plants absorb fertilizers through two primary pathways – their roots and leaves. Foliar fertilization is a technique that involves applying liquid fertilizers directly to the leaves. This method can be helpful when plant roots cannot take in enough nutrients due to stress or other factors.

Liquid organic fertilizers are known for their high nutrient concentrations, and it’s essential to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for adequate dilution and application. This process helps ensure the fertilizer is used effectively and does not harm the plant or environment.

A watering can is ideal for applying fertilizer to the soil around the plant roots. Alternatively, a fertilizer injection can be used directly in the irrigation system, efficiently ensuring that the plants receive the proper nutrients. This process is called a soil drench.

Types of Liquid Organic Fertilizers

Liquid organic fertilizers are becoming increasingly popular among farmers and gardeners who seek a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers. These organic fertilizers come in various types, each with unique composition and application method. Here are some of the most common types;

• Fish Emulsion

Fish emulsion, fertilizer or hydrolysate, is an organic fertilizer derived from fish remains. Creating fish emulsion fertilizer involves grinding and processing the fish remains to remove the oil. Sulphuric acid is then added to lower the pH level, preventing the growth of harmful microbes.

Once the fish emulsion fertilizer has been processed and packaged, it is sold to consumers in various NPK ratios, such as 4:1:1, 5:1:1, and 5:2:2. However, it’s best to perform a soil test to determine the appropriate NPK ratio for your specific needs. Fish emulsion fertilizer is typically applied as a soil drench or foliar spray.

• Seaweed Fertilizer

Seaweed has been recognized as a valuable fertilizer for centuries, and coastal communities have traditionally collected it for use in their farms. This nutrient-rich organic material contains essential minerals, including magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, and nitrogen. Seaweed fertilizer is a 100% organic option that can offer several benefits to plants. 

When applied to the soil, it helps to alter the pH level, making nutrients more accessible to the plant roots. It can also improve soil texture and water retention, promoting healthy growth. Furthermore, seaweed fertilizer boosts plant resilience to harsh climates, disease, and other stressors. This property can lead to healthier, more robust plants better equipped to withstand challenging growing conditions.

• Compost Tea

Compost tea is a liquid organic fertilizer produced by extracting microorganisms from compost. These microorganisms consist of a diverse mix of beneficial bacteria, fungi, and protozoa that can help promote healthy plant growth. The process of making compost tea is straightforward. Typically, one volume of compost is mixed with a large volume of water. This process helps release soluble nutrients and organic matter from the compost, creating a nutrient-rich solution that can feed plants.

One of the significant benefits of compost tea is that it provides an ideal environment for microorganism growth. These microorganisms are essential in soil health and can help improve nutrient uptake, disease resistance, and overall plant vitality. By carefully controlling the brewing process, it’s possible to create a highly concentrated solution rich in beneficial microorganisms, making it a valuable addition to any organic agricultural program.

• Plant-based Fertilizers

Plants, including weeds, have the potential to serve as natural fertilizers. Plant-based fertilizers use plants and animal byproducts to produce a nutrient-rich soil amendment. They are often preferred by those who would instead employ organic growing methods since they are entirely free from preservatives and synthetic additives.

When applied to the soil, these natural fertilizers break down and gradually release nutrients, providing the necessary nutrients to support plant growth and nourishment. Plant-based fertilizers can be especially beneficial in soils with low moisture retention or are otherwise nutrient-deficient.

A common type of plant-based fertilizer is fermented plant juice (FPJ), which is produced by extracting sap from plants and then fermenting it, often with the help of molasses or brown sugar. Other common ingredients used in this fertilizer include organic soybean and alfalfa meal, greensand, langbeinite, and humates.

Plant-based fertilizers tend to have a lower NPK ratio compared to synthetic fertilizers. However, they can still provide plants with a balanced mix of essential nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other essential micronutrients. This property makes plant-based fertilizers ideal for supporting healthy plant growth and promoting soil health and fertility.

• Bio-stimulant Fertilizers

Bio-stimulants are a broad range of natural or synthetic substances that enhance plant growth and development. However, unlike traditional fertilizers that rely on specific nutrient ratios, bio-stimulants stimulate the natural physiological process of plants, helping them cope with various environmental stressors, such as extreme temperatures, disease, or herbicides.

Bio-stimulants are classified into several categories, each with unique properties and benefits. For instance, humic acids, derived from decaying organic matter, help to improve soil structure and water retention while enhancing nutrient uptake by the plant roots. Similarly, liquid manure composites, produced by fermenting animal waste, can provide a rich source of nutrients and beneficial microbes that help support healthy plant growth.

Furthermore, beneficial bacteria, such as Azorhizobium, can also act as bio-stimulants by establishing symbiotic relationships with plant roots, promoting nutrient cycling, and improving disease resistance. Bio-stimulants also help improve soil fertility, making them a promising avenue for sustainable agriculture.

• Microbial Inoculants

Microbial inoculants are a type of natural resource that comprises several microorganisms that play a crucial role in improving the quality of soil and plants. These microorganisms, which are also called soil inoculants or bio-inoculants, are composed primarily of both bacteria and fungi,

The bacteria inoculants consist of diverse species, such as Burkholderia cepacia, Azospirillum lipoferum, and phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria, while fungal inoculants include Arbuscular mycorrhizae and phosphorus-solubilizing fungi. In addition to these, there are also composite inoculants that combine both bacteria and fungi. These organic fertilizers provide numerous benefits, including improving plant growth, soil fertility, and crop yields.

Advantages of Liquid Organic Fertilizers Over Conventional Fertilizers

As the world population continues to increase, the demand for food grows. Simultaneously, the pressure to produce more food in less time becomes more significant. This situation has led to using conventional synthetic fertilizers, which provide plants with the necessary nutrients to grow faster and produce more yields. 

However, these fertilizers adversely impact the environment and human health. As a result, there has been a growing interest in alternative fertilizers that are more sustainable and environmentally friendly. One such alternative is liquid organic fertilizers, which have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their numerous advantages over conventional fertilizers. Let’s look at some of these advantages.

• Non-toxicity

Liquid organic fertilizers are ideal for fertilizing plants because they use natural minerals. These fertilizers are safe for humans, animals, plants, and the environment. Unlike chemical fertilizers, which can harm plants and increase soil acidity over time, liquid organic fertilizers promote healthy growth and provide essential nutrients to plants.

Furthermore, plants grown using liquid organic fertilizers are generally considered healthier to consume than those produced using synthetic fertilizers. Several studies also back up this claim, linking the use of chemical fertilizers to various diseases, such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes.

• Microbes

Organic matter is abundant in liquid organic fertilizers, which provide a nutritious food source for the microorganisms residing in the soil. This composition leads to the proliferation and enhancement of crops. In contrast, chemical fertilizers have gained notoriety for their ability to disturb and hinder the growth of microbial compositions within the soil.

• Sustainability

Liquid organic fertilizers are more sustainable than chemical fertilizers for several reasons. First, liquid organic fertilizers are often made from natural, renewable sources such as compost, manure, or plant extracts. They are less likely to deplete non-renewable resources or contribute to environmental pollution than chemical fertilizers, typically synthesized from fossil fuels or mined minerals.

Liquid organic fertilizers are also less likely to leach into groundwater or contaminate nearby waterways because they are applied in smaller amounts and readily absorbed by the soil. They also help build soil health by increasing organic matter, improving soil structure, and fostering a diverse microbial community. 

• User-Friendliness

User-friendliness is a benefit of liquid organic fertilizers because they are easy to handle and apply. Unlike traditional solid fertilizers, which can be messy and difficult to use, liquid organic fertilizers are typically diluted and can be easily applied, making them a more convenient option.

Additionally, the liquid form of these fertilizers allows for more precise application, resulting in better nutrient uptake and more consistent growth of plants. Overall, the user-friendly nature of liquid organic fertilizers can save time, reduce waste and lead to healthier outcomes.

• Pesticides

Liquid organic fertilizers can help reduce pesticide use in several ways. Providing a steady supply of nutrients to crops can help boost plant health and resilience, making them less vulnerable to pests and diseases. This is because healthy plants are better suited to defend themselves against external threats.

Liquid organic fertilizers also improve soil quality and structure, creating a more hospitable environment for beneficial organisms. Finally, some liquid organic fertilizers contain natural compounds with insecticidal and fungicidal properties, such as neem oil or garlic extract. These compounds can help deter or kill pests without synthetic chemicals like pesticides.

Best Practices for Liquid Organic Fertilizer Shipping

Liquid organic fertilizer shipping is becoming increasingly common as more farmers and gardeners adopt organic farming and gardening practices. Liquid organic fertilizers offer several benefits over traditional synthetic fertilizers, including improved soil health, reduced environmental impact, and improved plant growth and yield.

Many companies now specialize in producing and distributing liquid organic fertilizers; however, as with most fertilizers, liquid organic fertilizers may be considered hazardous if they meet specific criteria. For instance, a solution that contains high levels of nitrogen creates a risk of fire or explosion if it comes into contact with other substances.

Hence, regulations and best practices must be followed when shipping liquid organic fertilizers to ensure safe handling and transportation. Here are some best practices to minimize spills, leaks, and the risk of other accidents and adverse occurrences.

• Use temperature-controlled containers

The most common containers for shipping liquid organic fertilizers are intermediate bulk containers (IBC). These containers are designed to store liquids and powders and are known for their durability and reusability. IBCs are sometimes called “totes” and come in several sizes and materials, including plastic and stainless steel.

Stainless steel IBCs are well-suited for storing and transporting liquid organic fertilizers, offering superior temperature control and insulation. They can maintain the ideal temperature for the fertilizer over a long period, protecting it from extreme heat and moisture that could compromise its quality.

• Label the packaging

Notably, liquid organic fertilizers can have varying acidity, neutrality, or alkalinity degrees. Hence, following the guidelines set forth by the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), which has assigned the code 68140 for liquid fertilizer shipping, is essential to transport such fertilizers.

To ensure a safe and effective shipment, it is crucial to correctly label the containers with all the necessary information. Furthermore, it is mandatory to state the chemical composition of the liquid organic fertilizer in compliance with national regulations. This process helps ensure the safety of those involved in the transportation process and minimizes the risk of transporting hazardous materials.

• Use appropriate shipping methods.

Several established methods for liquid organic fertilizer shipping include sea, rail, and road. Among these methods, shipping by sea is widely recognized for allowing the most significant volume of liquid organic fertilizers to be transported.

These marine vessels are typically capable of carrying between 15,000 to 25,000 deadweight tonnage. These vessels are also equipped with specialized storage and handling facilities to ensure that the liquid organic fertilizers are transported safely and effectively. All these make shipping by marine vessels attractive for those looking to transport bulk liquid organic fertilizers over long distances.

In some scenarios, there may be better options than sea transportation. Hence, selecting the most appropriate shipping method for your products is best, depending on specific shipping requirements. 

• Follow regulations

Shipping liquid organic fertilizers is subject to specific regulations that shippers must adhere to in ensuring the safety of those involved in the transportation process and the general public. One such rule requires that all parties involved recognize and prepare for potential hazards that may arise during transportation. It also involves being aware of the steps to take in case of unforeseen incidents during shipping.

Furthermore, every shipping document must contain detailed information regarding the chemical properties of the liquid organic fertilizers transported. This information is crucial as it allows for the safe handling and transportation of fertilizers and helps prevent accidents or incidents. 

• Use reputable carriers

Using reputable carriers in shipping liquid organic fertilizers is essential for several reasons. These fertilizers can be sensitive to temperature changes and light, air, and moisture exposure, affecting their quality and effectiveness. These carriers have specialized equipment and facilities to properly transport and store these products.

Selecting reputable carriers also guarantees compliance with regulations, timely delivery, and liability protection, which are all crucial factors for the success of a business. Furthermore, you must confirm that the carrier you work with is HazMat certified. Ensure that they meet other carrier requirements as well.

Conclusion

In conclusion, shipping liquid organic fertilizers is a crucial aspect of the organic farming industry that requires careful consideration and planning. The primary process involves packaging, labeling, and shipping in a timely and efficient manner to maintain its quality and efficacy.

As more and more farmers turn to organic farming methods and seek to reduce their environmental impact, the demand for liquid fertilizer shipping services will continue to grow. Therefore, the industry must continue to innovate and improve its shipping processes to meet the needs of this rapidly expanding market.

The process of shipping these fertilizers might feel overwhelming; however, by choosing reliable and experienced shipping partners like Total Connection, organic farmers can rest assured that their liquid organic fertilizer will arrive at its destination in optimal condition. At Total Connection, we help farmers and businesses ship liquid organic fertilizer to any destination, ready to nourish and enhance crop growth. Contact us today, and let us find a shipping solution for you!