What can be a consequence of applying nitrogen at inappropriate times?

Applying nitrogen at inappropriate times can lead to nutrient leaching and degradation of water quality because nitrogen is highly soluble in water. When nitrogen fertilizers are applied during periods of heavy rain or when crops are not actively growing, the excess nitrogen can wash away from the soil into nearby water bodies, causing pollution. This runoff can lead to problems such as algal blooms and dead zones in water ecosystems, severely impacting aquatic life and water quality.

In contrast, applying nitrogen at the right times corresponds to when crops can effectively utilize the nutrient, enhancing growth without excess loss to the environment. This understanding highlights the importance of timing in nutrient management practices to promote both agricultural productivity and environmental protection.