1.   The fertiliser releases nutrients gradually as bacteria decompose it.

2.   These gums are highly polymerized pentoses that have to be broken down by bacteria, which release nutrients roughly equivalent to the yields from fruits.

3.   As my manure and compost decomposes, carbohydrates and proteins break down and release nutrients such as nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus.

4.   As the worms swallow the sludge, their powerful gizzards grind it into small pieces, releasing nutrients and allowing soil microbes to proliferate.

5.   Ash from a fire releases nutrients into the soil, so fast-growing grasses such as red brome again will take off with a vengeance.

6.   Disease can perform functions like killing old or weak trees and releasing nutrients for other plants to use.

7.   My fertilizer of choice is soybean meal, an organic source of nitrogen that releases nutrients into the soil slowly throughout the growing season.

8.   When land is drained for agriculture, that enables bacteria to release nutrients from the soil more efficiently.