A scientist wants to determine whether a new fertilizer increases the growth rate of tomato plants compared to the standard fertilizer. After the experiment, the $p$-value is calculated to be $0.22$. At a significance level of $0.05$, what should the scientist conclude about the null hypothesis and the effectiveness of the new fertilizer?

• A. Reject the null hypothesis, as there is sufficient evidence to support the claim that the new fertilizer is more effective
• B. Reject the null hypothesis, since there is insufficient evidence to support the claim that the new fertilizer is more effective
• C. Fail to reject the null hypothesis, as there is insufficient evidence to support the claim that the new fertilizer is more effective
• D. Fail to reject the null hypothesis, since there is sufficient evidence to support the claim that the new fertilizer is more effective

Answer: (C)