Word: Fertilizer

Pronunciation

/ˈfɜːr.tɪ.laɪ.zər/

Definitions

• Noun: A substance added to soil to improve its fertility, often containing nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which promote plant growth. For example: “The farmer applied a layer of natural fertilizer to his fields.”

Example Sentences

• “To increase crop yields, it’s essential to use high-quality fertilizer.”
• “A mixture of compost and manure can serve as an excellent organic fertilizer.”
• “Too much chemical fertilizer can lead to soil degradation and water pollution.”

Phrases

• “Fertilize the soil”: To apply fertilizer to the soil in order to enhance its nutrient content.
• “Organic fertilizer”: A type of fertilizer derived from natural sources that breaks down slowly, releasing nutrients over time.
• “Slow-release fertilizer”: A type of fertilizer designed to release nutrients gradually, providing plants with sustained nutrition.

Synonyms

• Nutrient supplement
• Plant food
• Manure
• Compost
• Crop nutrient
• Soil amendment
• Plant booster
• Garden feed

Additional Information

Fertilizers come in various forms including granules, powders, liquids, and pellets. They can be synthetic (manufactured) or organic (derived from natural materials like animal waste or decomposed plant matter). The N-P-K ratio on fertilizer packaging indicates the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) present in the product. These elements play crucial roles in plant health: nitrogen encourages leafy growth, phosphorus supports root development and flowering, while potassium improves overall plant vigor and disease resistance.