Final answer:
Fertilizers are commonly enriched in the macronutrients nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which support various aspects of plant growth, from leaf development to flowering and fruiting. These are needed in larger quantities than micronutrients and are essential for the healthy growth of plants.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fertilizers are usually enriched in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These are considered the three main macronutrients required for plant growth. They serve different but vital roles: Nitrogen (N) is crucial for leaf growth, phosphorus (P) aids in the development of roots, flowers, seeds, and fruit, while potassium (K) contributes to strong stem growth, movement of water in plants, and the promotion of flowering and fruiting. Unlike the micronutrients like copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn), which are needed in much smaller amounts, these macronutrients are required by plants in larger quantities to maintain healthy growth and development.
Whether organic or synthetic, fertilizers provide these essential nutrients to the soil, compensating for what might not be available naturally in sufficient amounts. Moreover, excessive application of phosphorus and nitrogen can lead to environmental concerns such as eutrophication of water bodies due to agricultural runoff during heavy rainfall, making the proper balance and usage of fertilizers crucial for sustainable agriculture.