fertilize
verb
fer·til·ize
ˈfər-tə-ˌlīz 
fertilized; fertilizing
: to make fertile: such as
a
: to apply a fertilizer to
fertilize land
b
: to cause the fertilization of
Examples of fertilize in a Sentence
A single sperm fertilizes an egg.
Bees fertilize plants as they collect nectar from flowers.
He fertilizes the lawn every year.
The soil is so rich there is no need to fertilize.
Recent Examples on the Web
To ensure that peonies bloom to their full potential, here are peony expert recommendations for fertilizing peonies, as well as other tips to extend the blooming season of these gorgeous yet ephemeral flowers.
—
Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 12 June 2026
This self-fertilizing plant handles cooler temperatures better than most citrus, but will still need protection from extreme cold.
—Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 10 June 2026
Be sure to water plants well after fertilizing.
—Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 8 June 2026
Proper watering, sunlight, pruning, and fertilizing help maximize rose flower production.
—Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for fertilize
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Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 12 June 2026
This self-fertilizing plant handles cooler temperatures better than most citrus, but will still need protection from extreme cold.
—Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 10 June 2026
Be sure to water plants well after fertilizing.
—Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 8 June 2026
Proper watering, sunlight, pruning, and fertilizing help maximize rose flower production.
—Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for fertilize
Cite this Entry
“Fertilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fertilize. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
fertilize
verb
fer·til·ize
ˈfərt-ᵊl-ˌīz
fertilized; fertilizing
: to make fertile: as
a
: to cause the fertilization of
also
: to unite with in the process of fertilization
a sperm fertilizes an egg
b
: to apply a fertilizer to
fertilize land
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