What is the primary purpose of starter fertilizer in no-till systems?

The primary purpose of starter fertilizer in no-till systems is to provide essential nutrients. In no-till agriculture, where soil disturbance is minimized, the availability of nutrients in the seed zone can be limited. Starter fertilizers contain a concentrated source of macro and micronutrients, like phosphorus and nitrogen, which are crucial for early plant growth.

These nutrients help to stimulate root development and enhance early plant vigor, ensuring that seedlings can establish themselves effectively in the potentially nutrient-poor conditions associated with no-till systems. By applying starter fertilizer directly at planting, farmers can give crops a crucial nutrient boost during the critical early growth stages, improving overall yield potential.

Other options mention weed growth, seed viability, or soil texture, which do not accurately represent the primary role of starter fertilizers. While enhancing seed viability may be beneficial, it does not capture the primary function of providing targeted nutrition during initial growth, which is pivotal for crop establishment in no-till environments.