Organic Fertilizers

ICL provides organic farmers with a reliable and sustainable fertilizer option that delivers balanced nutrition, promotes healthy crop growth, and supports organic farming principles and environmental sustainability.

What are certified organic fertilizers?

Certified organic fertilizers used in commercial agriculture in the US are products that have been verified and approved for use in organic farming practices by accredited certifying agencies, such as the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI). These fertilizers comply with the standards set forth by the National Organic Program (NOP) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Is Polysulphate (polyhalite) certified organic?

Created from a naturally occurring multi-nutrient mineral, polyhalite is the foundation of our Polysulphate-based fertilizers. Polysulphate is a natural product licensed for use in organic farming systems (OMRI approved in the US and Canada), with a particularly low carbon footprint. See details on certification below.

What is OMRI, and what does OMRI approved mean?

OMRI stands for the Organic Materials Review Institute. OMRI is a non-profit organization that evaluates and certifies products for use in organic agriculture and processing. When a product is OMRI-approved, it means that it has undergone a rigorous review process and has been determined to comply with the standards set forth by the National Organic Program (NOP) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

OMRI approval is a mark of quality and trust. It signifies that a product meets the strict criteria for use in certified organic farming practices. This includes the crucial absence of synthetic chemicals, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and other prohibited substances. OMRI-approved products, which can include fertilizers, pesticides, soil amendments, livestock feed supplements, and processing aids, provide consumers with the reassurance they need when choosing organic, knowing that these products are free from any unwanted additives.

For farmers and producers seeking organic certification for their products, using OMRI-approved inputs is essential to ensure compliance with organic regulations and maintain the integrity of their organic farming practices. Consumers also rely on OMRI approval to make informed choices when purchasing organic products, as it verifies that the products have been verified for use in organic agriculture.

What are the benefits of using certified organic fertilizers?

Growers across the US may choose to use certified organic fertilizers for different reasons, but regardless of what drives this decision, there are numerous benefits to be had. It’s important to note that not all farmers who use certified organic fertilizers have certified organic products. In fact, growers across the US use organic fertilizers for several reasons. For example, many of our conventional growers use Polysulphate simply because it’s an effective, gradual-release multi-nutrient fertilizer. Here are just a few of the benefits to including organic fertilizers in a nutrient management plan:

Compliance with Organic Standards: Many farmers choose organic fertilizers to align with organic farming practices and comply with the National Organic Program (NOP) standards. Using organic fertilizers is a requirement for farms seeking organic certification.
Environmental Sustainability: Organic fertilizers are typically derived from natural sources such as plant matter, animal waste, and minerals. They promote soil health, biodiversity, and sustainable agricultural practices by improving soil structure, enhancing nutrient cycling, and reducing chemical inputs.
Soil Health: Organic fertilizers provide a balanced mix of nutrients and organic matter that nourishes the soil and supports beneficial microbial activity. They improve soil fertility, water retention, and overall soil structure, leading to healthier and more resilient crops.
Reduced Chemical Use: In many cases, organic fertilizers are based on carbon containing materials like compost or animal wastes. However, other fertilizer certified to be organic can be mineral based products like ICL’s Polysulphate or even versions of common fertilizer products like potash (potassium chloride). Farmers can reduce their synthetic inputs by using organic fertilizers and minimize the real or perceived environmental and health risks associated with chemical fertilizers.
Consumer Demand: There is a growing demand for organic products among consumers who prioritize health, environmental sustainability, and ethical farming practices. Farmers who use organic fertilizers can market their products as certified organic, meeting the expectations of consumers seeking organic options.
Regenerative Agriculture: Organic farming practices, including the use of organic fertilizers, are often seen as part of a broader movement toward regenerative agriculture. This approach focuses on restoring ecosystem health, sequestering carbon, and promoting resilience in the face of climate change.

What are the different kinds of certified organic fertilizers:

Minerals: Natural mineral fertilizers, such as polyhalite (Polysulphate) rock phosphate, and gypsum, provide essential nutrients like phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur. They improve soil fertility and support plant growth in organic farming systems. Polysulphate is OMRI-approved in the US and Canada, and EcoCert approved in the EU.
Compost: Created from decomposed organic materials like food waste, crop residues, and manure, compost provides a balanced nutrient profile and enhances soil texture and moisture retention.
Manure: Animal manure, such as cow, chicken, or horse manure, is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other micronutrients. It promotes soil fertility and microbial activity, improving nutrient availability. Combining OMRI-approved Polysulphate with manure has also been shown to have positive effects on yield.
Cover Crops: Legumes (e.g., clover, alfalfa) and grasses (e.g., rye, barley) grown as cover crops enrich soil health and fertility. Upon incorporation, they release nutrients and organic matter, benefiting subsequent crops.
Bone Meal: Derived from ground animal bones, bone meal is abundant in phosphorus and calcium, supporting root development and overall plant growth.
Fish Emulsion: Made from fish waste, fish emulsion provides a rapid source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It enhances soil microbial activity and aids in plant nutrient uptake.
Seaweed Fertilizer: Seaweed-based fertilizers contain a variety of nutrients, including nitrogen, potassium, and trace minerals. They also contain growth-promoting hormones and contribute to soil structure improvement.