fertiliser
Definition
Fertiliser (noun, also spelled fertilizer) A natural or chemical substance that is added to soil or land to increase its fertility and help plants grow. It provides essential nutrients that plants need to develop.
Usage
Fertiliser is used to improve the quality of soil for agricultural or gardening purposes. It is typically applied by spreading, mixing into the soil, or dissolving in water.
Examples
- The farmer spread fertiliser on the field before planting the new crop.
- This organic fertiliser is made from composted plant material.
- Using too much chemical fertiliser can harm the environment.
Advanced Usage
- Compound fertiliser: A fertiliser that contains two or more of the primary plant nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium).
- Example: A 10-10-10 compound fertiliser provides balanced nutrition.
- Slow-release fertiliser: A type of fertiliser designed to release nutrients over an extended period.
- Example: Slow-release fertiliser is ideal for potted plants as it requires less frequent application.
Variants and Related Words
- Fertilize (verb, also spelled ): The action of applying fertiliser.
- Example: You should fertilize your lawn in the spring.
- Fertilization (noun): The process of applying fertiliser or making soil fertile.
- Example: Proper fertilization is key to a successful harvest.
Different Meanings
The word "fertiliser" is specific to agriculture and gardening. In biology, the related verb "fertilize" can also refer to the union of male and female gametes in reproduction, but the noun "fertiliser" is not used in that context.
Synonyms
- Plant food
- Manure (specifically organic waste used as fertiliser)
- Compost (decayed organic material used as a fertiliser)
Antonyms
- Sterilant (a substance that makes soil sterile or infertile)
Related Phrases/Idioms
- To be a fertiliser for (something): Used metaphorically to mean something that encourages development or growth.
- Example: Curiosity is a fertiliser for learning. (Note: This is a less common, figurative use.)
Noun
-
any substance such as manure or a mixture of nitrates used to make soil more fertile
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