Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) Practice Exam

Which fertilizer formulations are best suited to address nutrient management regulations?

1. Balanced fertilizers

2. Slow-release fertilizers

3. Low nitrogen fertilizers

4. Granulated fertilizers

The correct answer is: Slow-release fertilizers

Slow-release fertilizers are well-suited to address nutrient management regulations due to their ability to release nutrients gradually over an extended period of time. This slow release minimizes the risk of nutrient leaching into waterways, which is a significant concern in nutrient management regulations aimed at protecting the environment. Additionally, slow-release fertilizers can improve nutrient uptake efficiency by plants, ensuring that nutrients are available exactly when needed, rather than all at once. This characteristic also contributes to a reduced need for frequent applications, which aligns well with sustainable practices encouraged by nutrient management guidelines. Balanced fertilizers may provide an even distribution of nutrients, but they do not specifically tackle the environmental concerns associated with nutrient runoff and leaching. Low nitrogen fertilizers can mitigate certain issues, but they may not be comprehensive enough in addressing the full spectrum of nutrient management regulations. Granulated fertilizers could also be effective in some cases, but their release patterns might not align with the regulatory emphasis on minimizing environmental impact. Therefore, slow-release fertilizers stand out as the most effective option for meeting these regulations.