Slow Release – True or False? A Case for Control

Keywords: Fertiliser, Slow release, Controlled release, Labels, Legislation, Organic.

The types of slow and controlled release fertiliser available nowadays depend on chemical, physical and biological mechanisms for their special properties. Their modes of action and their benefits are discussed along with information on their chemical nature and properties.

The paper goes on to examine past and existing legislation with special emphasis on the implications for speciality and slow release fertilisers. The author sees a strong emphasis on protection for agriculture rather than for the home gardener, grower or amenity manager. Potentially suitable test methods are suggested for the extra information which would be needed on labels in order to regulate claims of slow release.

The reasons are explored for the lack of understanding of the statutory information on the label along with the reluctance of suppliers to quote more than they are obliged about those properties of their product which could be subjected to measurable examination. Examples of existing practice are provided and examined. A recommendation is made to widen the controls provided by fertiliser legislation in order to supply more information to the consumer. It is suggested that this would help bring about fairer standards of trade.

F N Wilson, Ipswich, Suffolk, UK.

34 pages, 8 tables, 31 refs.