If you’re an avid gardener, you’re probably always on the lookout for the best fertilizer to help your plants during your growing season. Seaweed and kelp are two popular options for organic gardeners, but what’s the difference between the two? And which one is better for your soil and plants? Choosing between kelp and seaweed can be confusing that’s why today we’re diving into seaweed vs kelp fertilizer so you can decide what’s best for you!
Seaweed and kelp are both types of marine algae that have been used as natural fertilizers for centuries. They’re rich in nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for plant growth. However, there are some key differences between the two that may make one a better choice for your garden than the other.
Difference Between Seaweed vs Kelp Fertilizer
Nutrients
The main differences between seaweed and kelp fertilizer are the types of marine algae used. Seaweed fertilizer is derived from brown or red seaweed, while kelp fertilizer is derived from kelp or seaweed that grows on rocky coastlines. While both seaweed and kelp contain similar nutrients, kelp is known to have higher levels of potassium and valuable minerals such as iron and magnesium.
Form
Another difference between seaweed and kelp fertilizer is the form in which they are available. Seaweed fertilizer is available in liquid or powder form and is often used through foliar application or soil amendment. Kelp fertilizer is also available in liquid or powder form, but it is primarily used as a soil conditioner.
What should you choose
Both seaweed and kelp fertilizers are excellent natural fertilizers that can encourage healthy soil and encourage strong plants. They offer a wide range of nutrients, including potassium, nitrogen, and trace minerals, and are sustainable and organic fertilizers. Whether you choose seaweed or kelp fertilizer, you can rest assured that you are using a natural and environmentally friendly product to support your gardening efforts.
Our Favourite Fertilizers
1) Outdoor Plants: CLEANKELP
This Liquid Kelp fertilizer is actually a mix of Kelp and Seaweed giving you the best of both. It’s extracted from natural enzymes giving you the cleanest kelp extract for your garden. Made from fully organic matter, it can be used on both vegetables and flowers giving you healthier plants. It’s formulated in the USA with quality ingredients for plant health. Given it’s in liquid form, all you need to do is add it to water and put it on garden soil.
2) Great For Pots: KELP MEAL FERTILIZER
For best results, this multi-purpose plant food can be worked into the soil before planting, making it great for pots, gardens, and vegetable beds. Full of trace minerals, carbohydrates, and amino acids it will help create strong plant roots giving you stunning foliage all season long. This kelp powder is made from all-natural products making it an excellent fertilizer for any sort of garden plants.
3) Indoor Plants: MARPHYL ORGANIX LIQUID FERTILIZER
If you’re looking for a wonderful phytoplankton fertilizer (seaweed) then Marphyl is it! This is a great product for indoor plants, outdoor vegetables, and even lawns. Filled with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that your plants need to thrive, you can easily add this liquid seaweed fertilizer to water. It’s vegan, non-toxic, and non-GMO along with being sustainable.
Benefits of Seaweed and Kelp Fertilizer
Seaweed and kelp fertilizers are gaining popularity among gardeners due to their numerous benefits. They’re a great natural and organic fertilizer that contains essential nutrients required for plant growth. They’re also incredibly easy to use!
Benefits to Plant Growth
Seaweed and kelp fertilizers are rich in trace minerals, including iodine, which is essential for plant growth. These fertilizers contain growth hormones that stimulate plant growth and increase the yield of crops. They also help in the development of roots, which enhances the uptake of nutrients from the soil.
The fertilizers contain nutrients that promote photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. Seaweed and kelp fertilizers also contain trace elements that help in the development of healthy foliage and flowers.
Human Health Benefits
Seaweed and kelp fertilizers are not only beneficial for plant growth but also for human health. They are rich in antioxidants, which help in reducing oxidative stress in the body. The fertilizers contain iodine, which is essential for thyroid function, and the growth and development of the body. Seaweed and kelp fertilizers also contain trace nutrients that are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, reducing cholesterol levels, and regulating blood pressure.
Seaweed and kelp fertilizers are considered superfoods due to their high nutritional value. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and trace elements that are essential for overall health. The fertilizers are also beneficial for gut health and weight loss.
FAQs About Seaweed and Kelp Fertilizer
If you’re considering using seaweed or kelp fertilizer in your garden, you may have some questions. Here are some FAQs to help you understand the benefits of these natural fertilizers.
What is the difference between seaweed and kelp fertilizer?
Seaweed and kelp seaweed are both marine algae, but kelp refers specifically to brown seaweeds. Seaweed can refer to any type of marine algae, including red and green seaweeds. Both seaweed and kelp contain a variety of nutrients that can benefit plants, but kelp tends to have higher levels of trace elements like manganese and zinc.
Are seaweed and kelp fertilizers organic?
Yes, seaweed and kelp fertilizers are considered organic because they come from natural sources. Unlike chemical fertilizers, which are made from synthetic compounds, seaweed, and kelp fertilizers are made from marine algae.
How do seaweed and kelp fertilizers benefit plants?
Seaweed and kelp fertilizers provide a range of nutrients that can benefit plant growth and health. These nutrients include nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and trace elements like iron, manganese, and zinc. Seaweed and kelp fertilizers also contain growth hormones and other compounds that can stimulate root growth, improve soil health, and enhance photosynthesis.
Can I use seaweed powder as a fertilizer?
Yes, seaweed powder can be used as a natural fertilizer. Seaweed powder is made by drying and grinding seaweed into a fine powder. It can be added to soil or used as a foliar spray to provide nutrients and growth hormones to plants.
How do seaweed and kelp fertilizers compare to other natural fertilizers?
Seaweed and kelp fertilizers are often compared to other natural fertilizers like fish emulsion and bone meal. While all of these fertilizers provide nutrients to plants, seaweed, and kelp fertilizers tend to have higher levels of trace elements and antioxidants. Seaweed and kelp fertilizers also contain growth hormones and other compounds that can stimulate root growth and improve soil health.
Where can I find seaweed and kelp fertilizers?
Seaweed and kelp fertilizers are usually available at your local garden center and online retailers (see our favorites above). Some products are made from specific types of seaweed, like nori or wakame, while others are made from a blend of different seaweeds. Look for products that are sustainably harvested from the North Pacific Ocean or other habitats where seaweed grows naturally.
Are seaweed and kelp fertilizers renewable?
Yes, seaweed and kelp are renewable resources that can be harvested without damaging the environment. Unlike chemical fertilizers, which are made from non-renewable resources like fossil fuels, seaweed, and kelp fertilizers are made from plants that can be harvested and regrown. Using seaweed and kelp fertilizers can help support sustainable agriculture and protect soil health.
With all that said, seaweed vs kelp fertilizer, which one is better? Both provide your plants with much-needed nutrients to help them thrive! Some fertilizers actually contain both (see our top picks above), giving you all of the added benefits of both these great fertilizers.
The best way to choose a fertilizer is to understand where it will be used. Do you intend to use it on your vegetables, pots, or garden beds? How about indoor plants? This can help you decide what fertilizer is best for your specific needs.
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