According to Maryland nutrient management law, when should phosphorus fertilizer be applied?

According to Maryland nutrient management law, when should phosphorus fertilizer be applied?

• A. Only after a soil test indicates a need.
• B. Yearly in spring.
• C. Whenever fertilizer is available.
• D. Any time during the growing season.

Answer: (A)

Phosphorus should be added only when the soil test shows a need. This aligns with nutrient management rules that require you to base P applications on measured soil levels and crop requirements, not on routine use. By testing first, you meet the crop’s actual phosphorus needs and prevent building up excess P in the soil, which can run off into water bodies and cause pollution. So, applying phosphorus only after a soil test indicates a deficiency or a need is the responsible, environmentally sound approach.

Phosphorus should be added only when the soil test shows a need. This aligns with nutrient management rules that require you to base P applications on measured soil levels and crop requirements, not on routine use. By testing first, you meet the crop’s actual phosphorus needs and prevent building up excess P in the soil, which can run off into water bodies and cause pollution. So, applying phosphorus only after a soil test indicates a deficiency or a need is the responsible, environmentally sound approach.