Question

What are the pros and cons of having high levels of phosphorus in soil from added fertilizers?(site 1)

Answer 1

Answer:

PROS:

• Adequate phosphorus results in higher grain production, improved crop quality, greater stalk strength, increased root growth, and earlier crop maturity.
• It is responsible for assisting with the growth of roots and flowers and also helps plants withstand environmental stress and harsh winters. In fact, phosphorus (along with nitrogen) is considered one of the most limiting resources (has the ability to limit plant growth based on lack of phosphorus) in soils.

CONS:

• Excessive soil phosphorus reduces the plant's ability to take up required micronutrients, particularly iron and zinc, even when soil tests show there are adequate amounts of those nutrients in the soil.
• Too much phosphorus can cause increased growth of algae and large aquatic plants, which can result in decreased levels of dissolved oxygen– a process called eutrophication. High levels of phosphorus can also lead to algae blooms that produce algal toxins which can be harmful to human and animal health

Explanation: