What are controlled-release fertilizers designed to do?

Controlled-release fertilizers are specifically formulated to release nutrients gradually over an extended period. This slow and timed release of nutrients helps match the needs of the plants throughout their growth cycle, leading to more efficient nutrient uptake and reducing the risk of nutrient leaching into the environment. By providing nutrients steadily, these fertilizers can enhance plant growth, improve yield, and promote better overall soil health.

In contrast, other choices highlight functions that are not the primary purpose of controlled-release fertilizers. For instance, releasing all nutrients at once leads to potential nutrient runoff and doesn’t support sustained plant nutrition. Maintaining soil pH levels is crucial for plant health but is typically managed through lime or sulfur applications rather than fertilizers themselves. Minimizing soil erosion is essential for preserving topsoil but is achieved through practices such as cover cropping, not through the use of controlled-release fertilizer. Thus, the primary function of controlled-release fertilizers is to ensure a steady nutrient supply over time, aligning with the growth patterns of crops.