1.   Phosphates in the water, from agricultural run-off and discharge from sewage works, provide nutrients on which the algae thrive.

2.   American farmers regard soil merely as a medium for providing nutrients and water, Huston said.

3.   As the grass decayed, in this view, it provided nutrients like nitrogen that sparked the algae blooms.

4.   A generous amount of organic matter not only provides nutrients that stimulate growth, it helps hold moisture in the soil and discourages nematodes.

5.   A generous amount of organic matter not only provides nutrients that stimulate growth, it helps hold moisture in the soil and helps discourage nematodes.

6.   A mixture of equal parts compost, clean sand and good potting soil will help ensure good drainage as well as provide nutrients.

7.   A soil rich in organic matter will help provide nutrients as well as ensure drainage.

8.   But now researchers in Australia have found that prawn larvae feeding on blooms are mainly dying from starvation, because the algae do not provide sufficient nutrients.

9.   Compost improves soil texture, provides nutrients, and even protects plants against disease.