What can be a consequence of excessive nitrogen application on crops?

Excessive nitrogen application on crops can lead to nitrogen leaching into water systems, which is a significant environmental concern. When nitrogen is applied in amounts that exceed the plants' uptake capacity, it can seep through the soil and contaminate nearby water bodies. This leaching process can result in elevated concentrations of nitrogen in groundwater and surface water, leading to eutrophication—a phenomenon characterized by excessive nutrient enrichment. Eutrophication can cause algal blooms, deplete oxygen levels in the water, and harm aquatic ecosystems, ultimately impacting fish and other aquatic life. Addressing nitrogen application rates sustainably is vital to prevent these negative outcomes.

While increased yield, lower soil quality, and enhanced disease susceptibility may also be linked to nitrogen use, they do not directly address the specific consequence of nitrogen leaching into water systems, which is a pressing issue in crop management and environmental stewardship.