What are additives to the soil that replace needed nutrients called?

Additives to the soil that replace needed nutrients are known as fertilizers. Fertilizers are substances that are added to soil or plants to provide essential nutrients that may be deficient in the soil. These nutrients typically include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are crucial for plant growth and development. By replenishing these nutrients, fertilizers help to improve soil fertility and enhance agricultural productivity.

The other options refer to different soil amendments or ground treatments. Mulch is primarily used to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, rather than specifically providing nutrients. Herbicides are chemical agents used to control unwanted plants or weeds and do not contain nutrients for plants. Compost, while it can enrich soil with organic matter and nutrients, is not typically labeled as a fertilizer in the same context as synthetic or chemical fertilizers. Therefore, fertilizers are specifically associated with the replacement of necessary nutrients in the soil.