What is the effect of over-fertilization on plants?

Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn and the potential death of plants. When too many nutrients are applied, particularly nitrogen, it can cause an imbalance in the soil, leading to high salt concentrations. This excess can cause plant roots to dry out, resulting in a condition known as osmotic stress. Symptoms of nutrient burn include browning or yellowing of leaf tips and edges, wilting, and in severe cases, the complete decline of the plant.

In addition to the obvious immediate damage, over-fertilization can harm the plant's overall health by disrupting its ability to uptake water and nutrients from the soil. This can make the plant more vulnerable to diseases and pests, compounding the negative effects in the long run. Thus, it is crucial to apply fertilizers in appropriate amounts as per the specific needs of the plants to avoid these detrimental outcomes.