1.   But over time, soil can absorb the urea, which could allow the prions left behind to refold and become reactivated, Gabizon said.

2.   Do not apply water faster than the soil can absorb it.

3.   Farmers tend to apply more fertilizer rather than take a chance on less, so more nitrogen accumulates than the soil can absorb or break down.

4.   When moist soil absorbs sunlight, the water evaporates.

5.   With this system, the soil absorbs water via a string extended from the hole in the bottom of the pot to a reservoir of water.