fertilizes

Fertilizes is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb fertilize. In common usage, it describes the act of supplying nutrients to plants or soils to promote growth, or more broadly the act of enabling reproduction by providing required substances in biology.

In agriculture and horticulture, fertilizing refers to applying fertilizers that contain essential plant nutrients, primarily nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with micronutrients. Fertilizers can be inorganic chemical products or organic materials such as compost, manure, or bone meal. They may be applied to soil, sprayed on foliage (foliar fertilization), or delivered through irrigation (fertigation). Rate and timing depend on crop needs, soil tests, weather, and growth stage. Efficiency can be improved by precise application, split applications, and maintaining appropriate soil pH.

Biology: fertilizes also describes the act of fertilization, the process by which male and female gametes combine to produce a zygote. In animals, fertilization typically occurs when sperm penetrates an egg; in flowering plants, fertilization involves pollen reaching an ovule, leading to seed development. In some plants a double fertilization occurs, forming both the embryo and endosperm.

Environmental considerations: improper fertilization can lead to nutrient runoff, eutrophication, and groundwater contamination. Best practices include soil testing, adhering to fertilizer recommendations, using slow-release products when appropriate, and adopting sustainable nutrient management to minimize environmental impact.