Organic fertilizer is a type of fertilizer that is naturally produced from plant or animal sources, such as manure, compost, bone meal, and rock minerals. Unlike inorganic or synthetic fertilizers, organic fertilizers do not contain harmful chemicals and are easier for plants to digest. They also improve soil structure and feed beneficial microbes, making the soil easier to work with. Organic fertilizers usually contain plant or animal nutrients in lower concentrations, but may have a much wider range of nutrients. They are typically more slowly released, especially during cold weather when soil microbes are not as active. However, there do exist 'fast-release' organic fertilizers with a risk of fertilizer burn. Organic fertilizers are a good choice for gardeners who want to grow vegetables and small fruits in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way.