What is runoff in the context of fertilization?

Runoff is defined as the surface flow of water that occurs when precipitation or irrigation exceeds the soil's ability to absorb it. In the context of fertilization, runoff specifically refers to the movement of water that can carry away dissolved nutrients and fertilizers from their intended application area. This process leads to nutrient loss, where essential components like nitrogen and phosphorus are washed away from agricultural fields into nearby water bodies, potentially causing pollution and eutrophication.

This understanding highlights the significance of managing water flow and implementing best practices in fertilizer application to minimize nutrient loss via runoff. Proper techniques, such as strip cropping, cover crops, or buffer strips, can be employed to reduce runoff and improve nutrient retention in the soil, ensuring that fertilizers serve their intended purpose without adversely affecting the environment.