Pros & Cons of Using Liquid Bio Fertilizer

A bio fertilizer is more than just an organic fertiliser or manure. It is composed of a carrier medium that is abundant in live microorganisms. When used on seeds, soil, or living plants, it enhances soil nutrients or renders them biologically accessible. Bio fertilizers contain various types of fungi, root bacteria, or other microorganisms. These microorganisms establish a mutually beneficial or symbiotic relationship with host plants as they thrive in the soil.

There are broadly two categories of bio fertilizers, one is granular bio fertilisers and the other one is liquid bio fertilizers. In this blog, we will discuss the many advantages and a few disadvantages of liquid bio fertilizers for plants and crops.

Advantages

Improved Plants

Biofertilizers can boost yield by up to 30 per cent due to the nitrogen and phosphorus they introduce to the soil. The enhancement in soil texture and quality facilitates improved plant growth even in drought conditions. Additionally, liquid biofertilizers aid in the development of stronger root systems and overall plant growth. They also mitigate the impact of harmful soil organisms like fungi and nematodes, enabling plants to better withstand stress and prolong their lifespan.

Beneficial for Soil Microorganisms

Liquid biofertilizers and organic fertilizers aid in maintaining the presence of beneficial microorganisms essential for plant growth in the soil. They safeguard the natural fertility of the soil, free from chemicals, which is advantageous for both the environment and the plants it sustains. By eliminating toxic elements in the soil that lead to plant diseases, biofertilizers contribute to the better health of plants. Additionally, the use of biofertilizers can protect plants from scarcity and other challenging conditions.

Affordability

Liquid biofertilizers help diminish the reliance on costly petroleum-derived chemical fertilisers. The scarcity of fossil fuels necessary for manufacturing chemical fertilisers could lead to price hikes that may be unaffordable for small-scale users. In contrast, biofertilizers offer an affordable and user-friendly substitute for manufactured petrochemical products.

No Negative Impact on the Fertility of the Soil or Plant Growth

Studies indicate that the application of liquid biofertilizers such as Rhizobium, Azospirillum, and Azotobacter can lead to increased plant height. Additionally, these biofertilizers have been found to positively impact the number of leaves, shoot length, root count, and formation of root nodules, as well as the biochemical components including chlorophyll, carbohydrates, protein, and carotenoids.

Sustainability

Liquid biofertilizers are the best for plants as they enhance the availability of nitrogen and phosphorus to plants in a natural way, unlike conventional fertilisers. They offer various strains of microorganisms, allowing growers to customise the selection based on the specific needs of their plants. Their straightforward application makes them suitable for novice small-scale growers. Unlike chemical fertilisers, biofertilizers do not contaminate the soil or the environment. Chemical fertilisers often lead to excessive phosphate and nitrogen levels in the soil, which then leach into lakes and streams through runoff. This excess can result in diminished water quality, excessive algae growth, and harm to aquatic life.

Disadvantages

Short Shelf Life

Biofertilizers, being living organisms, necessitate particular care for long-term storage. It is crucial to utilise them before their expiration date, typically six months after production if stored at room temperature. When stored at a chilled temperature, they should be used within two years.

Large Quantities Are Required

For biofertilizer organisms to function effectively, the soil must contain sufficient nutrients to support their growth and activity. If the carrier medium becomes contaminated by other microorganisms, or if growers utilise an inappropriate strain, the effectiveness of the biofertilizers may be compromised.

No Total Replacement of Chemical Fertilisers

Synthetic fertilisers remain the top choice for farmers in swiftly providing plants with essential nutrients. They allow farmers to address specific nutrient deficiencies in plants promptly by providing the required nutrients directly.

Variable Performance

The effectiveness of liquid biofertilizers for plants can fluctuate based on various factors including the type of microorganism, soil conditions, and application methods. This variability can result in inconsistent outcomes regarding nutrient availability and plant response, presenting challenges in obtaining consistent and predictable crop yields.

Biofertilizers Lose Effectiveness in too Hot or Dry soil

The effectiveness of microbial fertilisers is contingent on adequate moisture and warmth. In unfavourable conditions with regard to these factors, microbial fertilisers may not effectively enhance soil fertility.

The application of liquid biofertilizers like NPK Liquid Consortia, Potassium Mobilising Biofertilizer, and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria can contribute to the development of healthy plants. They assist in improving soil health and sustainability. Although biofertilizers may reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers and pesticides, they cannot completely replace them. It is essential to use biofertilizers carefully and intelligently, taking into account their pros and cons.