Over-fertilization can lead to which environmental consequence?

• A. Nutrient runoff and pollution
• B. Increased soil strength
• C. Greater drought tolerance
• D. Enhanced pollinator habitat

Answer: (A)

When you over-apply fertilizer, you’re delivering more nutrients than the plants can take up, especially nitrogen and phosphorus. The excess nutrients are easily carried away by irrigation or rainfall and end up in nearby surface water or groundwater. That nutrient runoff is a common source of environmental pollution, fueling algal blooms, reducing water quality, and harming aquatic life and drinking water sources.

This is the key reason why nutrient runoff and pollution is the best answer. The other options don’t describe a direct environmental consequence of over-fertilization: fertilizer does not inherently make soil stronger, improve drought tolerance, or create habitat for pollinators. Proper rates, timing, and soil testing help prevent these pollution problems while supporting healthy turf.