Red Seal Landscape Horticulturist Practice Exam

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What negative effect can over-fertilization have on plants?

  1. Increased flower production

  2. Enhanced drought resistance

  3. Nutrient leaching, plant burn, and environmental pollution

  4. Improved root development

The correct answer is: Nutrient leaching, plant burn, and environmental pollution

Over-fertilization can lead to several negative effects on plants, and one of the most significant consequences is nutrient leaching, plant burn, and environmental pollution. When fertilizers are applied in excessive amounts, plants can absorb only a limited quantity of the nutrients provided. This excess can lead to nutrient leaching, where nutrients wash away from the soil into local waterways, potentially causing harmful environmental effects such as algal blooms. Additionally, the excessive nutrients can saturate the soil and lead to osmotic stress on the plants. This can cause "plant burn," characterized by the browning of leaf edges and tip dieback due to the high concentration of salts in the soil, which becomes toxic to the plants. Such conditions can hinder plant health, growth, and overall productivity. Addressing these issues through proper fertilization practices is essential for maintaining plant health and preventing negative environmental impacts.