Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) Practice Exam

When establishing a lawn, which fertilizer element is important in producing a stronger root and faster top growth of grass seedlings?

1. Nitrogen

2. Potassium

3. Phosphorus

4. Calcium

The correct answer is: Phosphorus

Phosphorus is crucial for establishing a lawn because it plays a significant role in root development and enhances the overall vigor of grass seedlings. When grass is seeded, phosphorus helps to stimulate root growth, which is essential for the plant to absorb nutrients and water from the soil effectively. Additionally, a well-developed root system supports faster top growth by allowing the grass to establish itself more quickly, leading to a denser and healthier lawn. In the early stages after seeding, the focus is on promoting strong roots rather than just leafy growth, and phosphorus is specifically key to this process. It is involved in energy transfer and photosynthesis, and when readily available to seedlings, it encourages robust root development. While nitrogen is important for promoting lush, green foliage, it can lead to excessive top growth at the expense of roots if applied too early in the establishment phase. Potassium also contributes to plant health but is more focused on overall vigor and disease resistance rather than specifically on early root development. Calcium, while important for overall soil health and structure, does not play a direct role in root stimulation compared to phosphorus. This makes phosphorus the most vital nutrient for establishing lawns effectively.