Why we advise against using fertilizers in the garden

Caring for your garden, whether it is a dry garden or not, means adopting sustainable practices that respect nature and promote the health of the soil and plants. Although the use of fertilizers is often recommended to improve plant growth, in reality, it can have negative long-term effects. In this article, we will explore why it is better to avoid fertilizers and how to maintain a lush garden using alternative techniques.



The damage that chemicals cause to the soil

The use of chemical fertilizers can cause significant damage to the soil. These products, often rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, tend to alter the soil's natural composition, depleting it of essential micronutrients and organic matter. This can lead to a decrease in the soil's biodiversity, as the variety of beneficial microorganism populations, such as bacteria and fungi, is reduced. The result is less fertile soil that is less able to support healthy, natural plant growth.

In addition, chemical fertilizers are known to cause groundwater and surface water pollution: when it rains or the soil is irrigated, excess products dissolve, contaminating waterways and potentially damaging the water system.

Fertilizers in a healthy garden

In a well-managed garden with healthy soil, the use of fertilizers should be kept to a minimum. Plants are able to obtain most of the nutrients they need from organic matter-rich soil and microbial life thanks to the garden's inherent biodiversity. When the soil is in balance, plant roots can absorb nutrients more efficiently, reducing the need for external inputs.

If you choose to use fertilizers, it is advisable to opt for organic ones, but always in moderation. Organic fertilizers, in fact, provide nutrients in a more natural form and are gradually absorbed, without causing nutrient spikes that could stress the plants. However, manure-based fertilizers are not recommended, as they can introduce weed seeds into the soil. In addition, the overuse of any type of fertilizer increases the need for irrigation, as an excess of nutrients can dehydrate the plants, requiring greater amounts of water to maintain balance. For this reason, a dry garden, which by its very nature requires very little water, is unlikely to be compatible with the use of fertilizers.

The mulching technique

An ecological and effective alternative to the use of fertilizers is mulching. This technique consists of leaving grass clippings on the lawn instead of removing them, allowing the organic matter to decompose naturally and return the nutrients the soil needs. Mulching helps retain soil moisture, reducing the need for irrigation, and promotes the growth of microorganisms that enrich the soil structure.

In addition, natural soil cover provides protection against erosion and prevents weed growth. Through mulching, a natural nutrient cycle is recreated, in which organic matter is constantly reintegrated into the soil, without the need to resort to chemicals or additional fertilizers. In this way, the garden remains healthy and self-sufficient, respecting the environment and reducing the impact of maintenance activities.