Fertilizers differ in their amounts of the nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Wastewater may contain high levels of the nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus.

Manure contains the nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus, which, when not managed properly on agricultural land, can pollute nearby streams, lakes, and other waters.

Fertilizers contain different amounts of the nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Based on a belief that waters with excessive amounts of nutrients help breed Pfiesteria in its toxic form, the measure sets strict regulations for the use of chicken manure, tons of which is spread as fertilizer on crop farms for its high content of the nutrients nitrogen and phosphorous.

Some fertilizers are coated with a polymer that breaks down gradually so the soil moisture can penetrate and slowly release the nutrients, particularly nitrogen, over an entire growing season.