Organic fertilizer - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Organic fertilizer," is a classic example of a straightforward, definition-based clue often found in early-week puzzles. It points to a specific, well-known substance used to enrich soil. This is a great clue for building confidence as it relies on general knowledge that is also a staple in the world of crosswords.

Clue Analysis

The clue is composed of two key terms: organic and fertilizer.

• Organic: In this context, it means the substance is derived from living matter, as opposed to being synthetically produced.
• Fertilizer: This is any material added to soil to increase its fertility and promote plant growth.

So, the puzzle is asking for a specific noun that is a type of fertilizer made from natural, once-living sources. There are many possibilities (like compost or manure), but crossword puzzles often favor words with unique letter combinations, and this answer is no exception.

Thinking Approaches

For a clue like this, a solver might use a few different strategies:

1. Direct Recall: If you have a green thumb or are a seasoned solver, the answer might pop into your head immediately. This particular word is a crossword favorite.
2. Brainstorming & Elimination: You could start listing types of organic fertilizers: compost, manure, bone meal, peat moss. As you get crossing letters from other clues, you can see which one fits. For example, if you know the second letter is 'U' and the fourth is 'N', most of the common options are eliminated.
3. Word Association: Think about sources of potent natural fertilizers. Animal waste is a primary source. What specific type of animal waste is famous for its use as a fertilizer, particularly from coastal or cave-dwelling animals? This line of thought leads directly to the answer.

Background Context

The answer, GUANO, refers to the accumulated excrement of seabirds and bats. It is a highly effective fertilizer due to its exceptionally high content of nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium, all crucial nutrients for plant growth.

Historically, guano was a substance of immense value. In the 19th century, it was so sought after that it led to a "Guano Era," where nations competed for control of guano-rich islands. The demand for it even sparked international conflicts, such as the Chincha Islands War between Spain and a Peruvian-Chilean alliance. Today, while synthetic fertilizers are more common, guano is still harvested and valued in organic farming.

Conclusion

"Organic fertilizer" is a solid, accessible clue that tests general knowledge. The answer is a word that is both scientifically specific and culturally significant, making it a great piece of vocabulary for any solver to have in their toolkit. When you see a definition-style clue, trust your instincts and consider the most common or well-known examples first.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This fertilizer is derived from animal waste.
2. Hint 2: It is particularly associated with flying creatures.
3. Hint 3: Seabirds and bats are the primary sources of this substance.
4. Hint 4: The word has Spanish origins, derived from a Quechua term for 'dung'.