Gödlningsmedel

Gödlningsmedel, often translated as "fertilizer" or "manure," is a substance added to soil or applied to plants to supply one or more plant nutrients essential for growth. These nutrients are typically nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, but also include secondary nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, and micronutrients such as iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, and molybdenum.

Fertilizers can be derived from natural sources or manufactured synthetically. Natural fertilizers include organic materials like compost, animal manure, and bone meal, which improve soil structure as well as providing nutrients. Synthetic fertilizers are chemically manufactured and typically provide nutrients in a more concentrated and readily available form.

The use of fertilizers is crucial in modern agriculture to replenish nutrients in the soil that are depleted by crop harvesting. This practice helps to increase crop yields and improve the quality of produce. However, overuse or improper application of fertilizers can lead to environmental problems such as water pollution through nutrient runoff into rivers and lakes, and soil degradation. Sustainable agricultural practices aim to optimize fertilizer use to maximize benefits while minimizing environmental impact.