Okara, also known as tofu dregs and tofu milk dregs, is a by-product produced in the process of making soy products such as tofu and soy milk. Okara is rich in nutrients, such as protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, etc., so it has a certain fertilizer value. So, can oka be used directly as fertilizer?This article will focus on the properties of okara, fertilizer requirements and usage methods.
First, let's understand the properties of okara. Okara is acidic and has a pH of 45-6, which is similar to the soil pH (6-7) required for most plants to grow. In addition, the organic matter content in okara is high, up to more than 80%, and it is easy to decompose, which is conducive to plant absorption. However, the content of major nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in okara is relatively low, which cannot meet the overall needs of plants. Therefore, okara can be used as an auxiliary fertilizer, but it cannot completely replace chemical fertilizers.
Next, let's analyze the fertilizer needs of plants. Plant growth requires a variety of nutrients, among which nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the main elements for plant growth and development, known as the "three major elements". In addition, plants also need trace elements such as calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, manganese, copper, zinc, and molybdenum. Although okara contains a certain amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other elements, its content is low and cannot meet the overall needs of plants. Therefore, okara cannot be used directly as fertilizer.
Finally, let's learn how to use okara. Okara can be used as an organic fertilizer, but it needs to be mixed with other fertilizers to improve fertilizer efficiency. Here are a few common ways to use okara::
Composting: Mix okara with other organic wastes (such as kitchen waste, straw, etc.) and stack them to form organic fertilizer after a period of fermentation and decomposition. This method not only solves the problem of okara treatment, but also provides rich nutrients for plants.
Mixed application: Mixed application of okara and chemical fertilizer can improve the utilization rate of chemical fertilizer and reduce the pollution of chemical fertilizer to the environment. It should be noted that the ratio of okara to chemical fertilizer should be appropriate, and it is generally recommended to mix it according to the ratio of 1:1.
Top dressing: During the vigorous plant growth period, the bean dregs are applied as top dressing, which can promote plant growth. It should be noted that okara should not be overapplied so as not to affect the normal growth of the plant.
In short, although okara has a certain fertilizer value, it cannot be directly used as fertilizer. Okara can be used as a secondary fertilizer or organic fertilizer, but it needs to be mixed with other fertilizers or composted. When using okara, it is necessary to pay attention to controlling the amount and proportion so as not to affect the normal growth of the plant. At the same time, the rational use of okara resources can not only reduce environmental pollution, but also provide rich nutrients for plants and achieve sustainable development.