Why are fertilizers high in nitrogen?

Fertilizers are high in nitrogen because it helps synthesize amino acids, proteins, chlorophyll, nucleic acids and enzymes needed for plant growth and leaf development. It is the nutrient mostly needed by plants along with phosphorus and potassium.

Nitrogen constitutes 78 percent of the earth’s atmosphere. It is naturally absorbed by plants through raindrops and through the nitrogen cycle that converts nitrogen in organic matters in the soil into nitrates.

Synthetic fertilizers contain ammonia that is formed by combining atmospheric nitrogen with hydrogen, making it easier and faster for plants to absorb the nutrient. However, farmers are advised to be careful in the quantity and frequency of its use.