Organic Phosphorous as an Alternative to Mineral Phosphatic Fertilizers

Phosphorous is an essential macronutrient required for plant growth. However, phosphorous is deficient in most soils and is moderately available to plants. The use of mineral phosphorous fertilizer has highly contributed in feeding the increasing world population by supporting high crop yield. However, edaphic processes cause phosphorous to be immobilized in soil, thus decreasing phosphorous availability for plants uptake. This low phosphorous use efficiency of mineral phosphorous fertilizer and the depletion of phosphate reserves are major issues calling for alternatives such as organic phosphorus. This chapter reviews phosphorous reserves and production in different countries, sources of organic phosphorous, testing techniques of organic phosphorous, and positive effects of organic phosphorous on crop productivity and soil health.