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Managing Phosphorus and Other Nutrients in Gardens

Updated September 22, 2025
Professional portrait of Hans Klopp

Hans Klopp

SDSU Extension Soil Health Field Specialist

Without monitoring the nutrient levels present in the soil, the levels of specific nutrients can become excessive. Conducting occasional soil testing in the garden is a valuable tool for assessing the current soil nutrients and evaluating the impact of applied fertilizers on soil quality. If the level of nutrients is high, money can be saved by skipping the application of fertilizer.