Why Origin
At Origin, we deliver high-performance organic fertilizers that are scientifically formulated, rigorously tested, and crafted specifically to match plant and soil needs. Our granular products are OMRI listed and CDFA approved, ensuring they meet strict standards for certified organic production. We provide proven steady-release nutrients that support steady plant growth, enhance beneficial soil microbial activity, and build long-term soil health.
Formulated For Organic Gardeners
Our low-dust, low-odor fertilizers are an excellent choice for planting, transplanting, and regular in-season feeding of all plants—perfect for both indoor pots and outdoor beds, vegetables, flowers, herbs, ornamentals, shrubs, fruit trees, lawns, and more. Simply scatter the granules on the soil surface, lightly incorporate them, and water thoroughly. A light fuzzy fungal growth on the surface (if not fully mixed in) is completely normal and positive—it shows active beneficial microbes at work, breaking down nutrients and keeping your soil alive and thriving.
What Makes Origin Different?
We use responsibly sourced, recycled products (such as blood meal, meat meal, and feather meal) combined with mined natural minerals (like langbeinite and sulfate of potash). No manure is included, which keeps odors low while delivering clean, effective nutrition.
Three unique blends designed to match your plants' specific needs
- 8-3-5 All-Purpose: Balanced nutrition with added calcium (to help prevent blossom end rot in tomatoes), sulfur, and magnesium. Ideal for general use across all plants and regions.
- 9-0-9 No Phosphorus: Higher potassium for stress tolerance, disease resistance, and better fruit set—great for lawns or phosphorus-sensitive areas.
- 13-0-0 Steady-Release Nitrogen: Multiple nitrogen sources (feather meal, meat meal, blood meal) for consistent, long-lasting feeding when nitrogen is the primary need.
All blends improve soil structure, retain water, add organic matter, feed beneficial microbes, and are environmentally safe for people, pets, pollinators, and ecosystems.
Not sure of your plants needs or which product is best for you? Grab a Soil Test & Get Custom Recommendations.
Why Choose Organic Fertilizers?
Organic fertilizers release nutrients gradually through natural microbial processes, building healthier soil over time—unlike synthetic options that deliver quick but short-term results and can degrade soil quality. Benefits include:
- Improved soil structure and water retention
- Increased beneficial microbes, bacteria, fungi
- Long-term soil fertility and sustainability
- Lower risk of pollution, runoff, or environmental harm
- Reduced chance of plant burn (when used as directed)
Organic fertilizers aren't all the same—nutrient profiles, sources, and release rates vary. Origin stands out with certified quality, no contaminants (thanks to testing and OMRI approval), and formulations tailored for real results.
Common Questions Answered
What is organic fertilizer?
Organic fertilizer is a nutrient-rich material derived from natural sources—such as plants, animals, or minerals—that improves soil and plant health through slow nutrient release and boosts soil life. Origin uses recycled products combined with mined natural minerals.
What are the benefits of using organic fertilizer?
Organic fertilizers improve soil structure, encourage beneficial microbes, retain water, add a wide range of nutrients, support long-term soil fertility, and are generally safer for the environment compared to synthetic alternatives.
How does organic fertilizer differ from synthetic fertilizer?
Organic fertilizers release nutrients gradually as microbes break them down, improving soil health over time, while synthetic (chemical) fertilizers provide fast but short-lived results and may degrade soil qualityor healthin the long run.
What nutrients are found in organic fertilizers?
Organic fertilizers deliver key macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium, iron), plus organic matter that enriches the soil’s ecosystem.Origin has three unique blends to meet your plants growing needs, a balanced 8-3-5, a blend great for stress in the 9-0-9, and when you only need nitrogen, a 13-0-0.
Are all organic fertilizers the same?
No, organic fertilizers differ in nutrient content, source material, and how quickly they release nutrients. Some are plant-based (like compost), others animal-based (like manure or bone meal), and some mineral-based. Choose based on your plants’ needs, or simply let your soil test guide you.
Is organic fertilizer safer for the environment?
Yes.Properly used, organic fertilizers are less likely to cause pollution or soil degradation, and they support sustainable agriculture by enhancing natural soil processes and biodiversity.
What ingredients are used in organic fertilizers?
Common ingredients include composted plant matter, animal manures, fish emulsions, bone meal, blood meal, meat meal, feather meal, and mineral deposits such as langbeinite. Always check the label for the specific formulation and to ensure there are no contaminants. Origin OMRI approved fertilizers contain some combination of blood meal, meat meal, feather meal, langbeinite, and sulfate of potash.
How do I choose the right organic fertilizer for my lawn or garden?
Assess your plants’ specific nutrient needs by doing a soil test and select products suited to those requirements. The right fertilizer should match your soil type, plant species, and seasonal growth phase.If you don’t have time for a soil test, then start with the Origin balanced 8-3-5, then soil test and follow the MySoil recommendations for follow up applications.
How much organic fertilizer should I use?
Application rates depend on the product, crop type, soil conditions, and local recommendations. Too much can be wasteful or harmful, so follow package directions and MySoil soil test recommendations for best results.
When is the best time to apply organic fertilizer?
The best time is at planting and monthly during active growth, but timing may vary by crop and region. For Lawns, every 6 weeks during active growth is optimal, while early in the season, then monthly in garden, or as needed based on growth, is recommended.
Does organic fertilizer work as quickly as synthetic fertilizer?
No; organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly, providing continuous feeding and improving soil long-term. Effects may be less immediate than with chemical fertilizers, but results are often healthier and more sustainable. Regular applications of Origin fertilizers help to overcome this slow release during peak nutrient uptake, such as during bloom and fruit set.
Can I make my own organic fertilizer?
Yes. You can create compost from kitchen scraps and yard waste, or use well-rotted manure, leaf mold, or homemade plant teas to supplement garden nutrition.It should be noted that the percentage nutrients in homemade organics is typically much lower that commercially available organic fertilizers such as Origin, so may not provide enough nutrition to maximize yield, nutrient density, or plant health. These homemade fertilizers are a fantastic addition to your Origin fertilizer program.
Is organic fertilizer more expensive than chemical fertilizer?
Upfront, organic fertilizers often cost more per pound of nutrient, but they improve soil health and reduce the long-term need for future inputs, which can save money over time.In the opinion of many the value of enhanced soil health while feeding your plants offsets the slightly higher cost.
Are organic fertilizers suitable for all plants?
Yes. Most plants benefit from organic fertilizers. However, some may have very specific nutrient needs that require targeted products or combinations, so check your plant’s preferences.
What certification labels should I look for?
Look for trusted seals like OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) or state-specific organic certifications such as CDFA OIM (California Department of Food and Agriculture – Organic Input Material)to ensure quality and compliance with organic standards.
Can organic fertilizers cause plant burning or harm?
Generally they are much less likely to burn plants than synthetic fertilizers, but over application or improper formulations can still cause issues. Always use as directed. Origin fertilizers are formulated to minimize this concern.
How do organic fertilizers improve soil structure?
They add organic matter, encourage microbial activity, increase water retention, and loosen compacted soils, leading to healthier root development and improved plant growth.
Will organic fertilizer help my soil’s beneficial microbes?
Yes, organic fertilizers support and increase populations of beneficial soil bacteria, fungi, and earthworms, which are key for healthy nutrient cycling and disease resistance.
Are organic fertilizers free from contaminants?
Most reputable organic fertilizers, such as Origin, are tested for safety and are free from harmful levels of heavy metals or toxins, especially if certified. Always choose trusted brands and check for OMRI certification.
Where can I buy certified organic fertilizers?
On this website! Shop now