Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) Practice Exam

What is the primary goal of nutrient management in horticulture?

1. Grow super plants

2. Provide adequate nutrients to meet the needs of the plants

3. Overfeed the plants so they look nice

4. Follow the directions on the package

The correct answer is: Provide adequate nutrients to meet the needs of the plants

The primary goal of nutrient management in horticulture is to provide adequate nutrients to meet the needs of the plants. This involves understanding the specific requirements of different plant species and ensuring that they receive the right balance of macronutrients and micronutrients at various stages of growth. Adequate nutrient supply is crucial for promoting healthy plant development, optimizing growth rates, enhancing yields, and preventing nutrient deficiencies or toxicities. Successful nutrient management not only supports plant health but also contributes to sustainable practices by minimizing environmental impact. Overfeeding plants may lead to issues such as nutrient runoff into water bodies, which can cause pollution and eutrophication. Simply following package directions without understanding plant needs can result in either undernourishment or overnourishment, neither of which is ideal for achieving optimal plant performance. Thus, focusing on providing the right nutrients tailored to specific plants maximizes both plant health and environmental stewardship.