True or False? Applying fertilizers during rain can increase runoff and leaching.

Applying fertilizers during rain is indeed true to result in increased runoff and leaching. When it rains, the water can cause surface runoff, which may carry the fertilizers directly into nearby waterways rather than allowing them to be absorbed by the soil. This can lead to nutrient loss from the soil and potentially contribute to water pollution through the loading of fertilizers into streams, rivers, and lakes.

Leaching also occurs when excess rainwater infiltrates the soil beyond its capacity, carrying soluble nutrients deeper into the ground or into groundwater supplies. This process can strip the soil of valuable nutrients that plants need to thrive and can lead to contamination of freshwater resources.

The other options do not fully capture the effects of applying fertilizers during rain. For instance, applying during frozen conditions or only in summer does not negate the risk associated with rainfall. It's essential to consider soil conditions and environmental factors when applying fertilizers to minimize negative impacts.