Soil is formed when rock (parent material) is broken down by
climate, organisms and vegetation over a period of time. It is
made up of weathered rock fragments and decaying remains of plants
and animals (organic matter). It also contains varying amounts of
air, water, and microorganisms. It furnishes mechanical support
and nutrients for growing plants.
Fertilizers are materials containing essential plant nutrients that are
added to the environment around the plant. Generally, they are
added to irrigation water or soil, but some can also be added to
the air or sprayed on plant leaves. Fertilizer is not plant food;
plants produce their own food using water, carbon dioxide, and
energy from the sun. This food (sugars and carbohydrates) is
combined with the plant nutrients to produce protein, enzymes,
vitamins, and other compounds essential for plant growth.