Agronomy Degree Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of an organic fertilizer?

1. Dolomite

2. Poultry litter

3. Sodium nitrate

4. Urea

The correct answer is: Poultry litter

Poultry litter is considered an organic fertilizer because it is a natural byproduct of poultry farming, consisting of a mixture of bird droppings, feathers, and bedding materials. It provides essential nutrients to plants, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and is rich in organic matter, which helps improve soil structure, water retention, and microbial activity. Organic fertilizers like poultry litter not only supply nutrients but also contribute to the long-term fertility of the soil by enhancing its biological activity and nutrient-holding capacity. In contrast, dolomite is primarily a mineral-based soil amendment, sodium nitrate and urea are synthetic fertilizers that provide nutrients without organic matter, which is why they do not fit the definition of organic fertilizers. Understanding this differentiation is crucial for sustainable agricultural practices and soil health management.