Which of the following is a source of nutrients for plants?

The choice identifying food waste and leguminous plants as a source of nutrients for plants is correct, as both components play significant roles in soil health and fertility. Food waste can be composted to create organic matter, enriching the soil with nutrients, improving moisture retention, and promoting beneficial microbial activity. This process contributes to a more sustainable nutrient cycle, allowing plants to access vital elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Leguminous plants, such as beans and peas, have the unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through their root nodules, thanks to a symbiotic relationship with specific bacteria. This not only benefits the leguminous plants themselves but also enriches the soil with nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for many other plants, enhancing their growth and productivity.

In contrast, chemical fertilizers are just one of many nutrient sources and do not cover the breadth of organic options available. Animal feed does not directly provide nutrients to plants, and pesticides and herbicides are used for pest control and weed management, not for nutritional purposes.