Which practice should be avoided to promote environmental health in fertilizer application?

Applying fertilizers on dry and windy days should be avoided to promote environmental health because these conditions increase the likelihood of fertilizer drifting away from the intended application area. Wind can carry fine particles of fertilizer into the air, where they may settle in unintended locations, potentially contaminating water bodies and harming local ecosystems. Additionally, applying fertilizers when the soil is dry means they may not be effectively absorbed by plant roots, leading to runoff when it does rain, further exacerbating the risk of nutrient pollution in nearby water sources.

On the other hand, practices such as soil testing before application ensure that fertilizers are applied only where and when they are needed, helping to reduce excess nutrient runoff. Timing applications based on weather forecasts can prevent applying fertilizers right before heavy rains, which would similarly contribute to runoff. Limiting fertilizer use near water sources helps protect these sensitive areas from nutrient overload, which can lead to problems such as algal blooms. Together, these strategies contribute to a more responsible and environmentally sound approach to fertilizer use.