If fertilizer or manure is not incorporated as required, what is a likely consequence?

• A. The material can pool on the surface and may be less effective.
• B. It will improve efficiency.
• C. It will automatically infiltrate.
• D. It will cause soil to explode.

Answer: (A)

Placing fertilizer or manure on the surface rather than mixing it into the soil keeps nutrients in an exposed position where roots can’t access them as effectively. When the material sits on top, it tends to form pools, especially after application or rainfall. Those surface pools are vulnerable to losses: nitrogen can volatilize into the air, and nutrients can be washed away by runoff or infiltration into the soil can be uneven. As a result, less nutrient becomes available to plants, making the application less effective. So the likely consequence is surface pooling with reduced effectiveness. The other options don’t fit because surface material won’t automatically infiltrate or improve efficiency, and it won’t cause the soil to explode.