Which situation leads to the need for increased fertilizer for plants?

The need for increased fertilizer for plants is often associated with compact soil. When soil is compacted, it restricts root growth and reduces soil aeration, leading to decreased nutrient uptake by the plants. Compacted soil can also limit water infiltration and drainage, making it difficult for plants to access the moisture and nutrients they require. Consequently, in a compacted soil environment, plants may struggle to thrive, and applying additional fertilizer can help compensate for the reduced ability of the plants to absorb nutrients effectively. This intervention can support healthier plant growth and improve overall nutrient availability in the soil, fostering better crop production.

It's essential to consider factors such as poor soil coverage, excessive rainfall, and high organic matter when evaluating soil health, but these conditions do not explicitly necessitate increased fertilizer application in the same way that compacted soil does. For example, poor soil coverage might indicate a need for ground cover but not necessarily more fertilizer, while excessive rainfall can lead to nutrient leaching, necessitating careful nutrient management rather than a simple increase in fertilizer. High organic matter generally enhances soil fertility, suggesting that plants would not require additional fertilizer in well-managed organic matter-rich soils.