With synthetic fertilizers often considered the other “F-word”, the plant nutrient industry could use some good environmental news. Well, folks, give it up for . . . sulfate of potash (SOP)! SOP fertilizers are considered so safe and natural that they are often endorsed by the National Organic Program (NOP) and the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) for use in approved organic systems. NOP develops and implements national production, handling and labeling standards while OMRI provides independent reviews of products.

Some people, affectionately referred to as the crunchy-granola types, say they won’t use anything but animal manure and household compost to fertilize their gardens. Yes, manure and compost do have a place, but these natural products also have their downsides. In addition to being bulky and messy, they are labor-intensive to handle and can potentially be pathogenic and a danger to human health if decay is incomplete. They can be limited in their efficiency to severely deprived soils since their nutrient release is slow. They may include weed seeds, which can easily sprout among the desired crops and they may contain high nitrogen, sodium or zinc levels which can cause imbalanced nutrients in soil and inhibit plant growth. Animal poop often emits offensive odors (aka ‘it stinks’) and can pollute surface and underground water bodies.

In addition to being environmentally friendly, SOP is a superior form of potash for many other reasons. Since it contains very little chloride, it is gentle on sensitive crops such as fruit and vegetables; and it doesn’t leave a saline reside in the soils that is particularly toxic to these plants. It also contains potassium and sulfur, which are nutrients that are beneficial to both human and plant health. It increases yields and decreases the amount of necessary water and farmland. It even improves the taste, nutrition and shelf life of food crops. It is soluble in water and can easily be used in irrigation systems.

Worldwide certified organic SOP producers include Diamond K Gypsum Agriculture, North Country Organics, Great Salt Lake Minerals, SQM Allganics and AgriEnergy Resources. Another new soon-to-be producer is IC Potash Corp. (ICP) from New Mexico. ICP intends to make a significant impact on the worldwide potash market. Due to its many advantages, SOP sells for a substantial 50% premium over regular potash. Its annual growth rate is expected to rise 3% to 4% per year since the demand for high-value, unprocessed food is also on the rise.

In summary, not only is it good for the earth, but SOP might just good for investors too. Oh, and it doesn’t smell like poop.