Macro-nutrients Flashcards
(22 cards)
Role of nitrogen
Essential in chlorophyll production. Enables photosynthesis
Fundamental component of amino acid and protien
Promotes growth and green foliage
What to add for nitrogen shortages
Urea
Organic matter
Rotate crops
Symptoms of nitrogen shortage
Yellowing of the leaves from the inside out
Stunted growth
Less yield
Nitrogen considerations
Aboit over application of fert. Best applied in small ammounts
Reasons for nitrogen deficiency
Leaching
Low organic matter
Imbalanced fert
Role of phosphorus
Essential for root transfer in plants
Early root development
Flowering and seed production
Phosphorus deficiency
Purple and reddening of leaves from the outside in
Delayed maturity
Poor route development
Causes of phosphorus defficiency
Low soil ph
Over cropping
Cold soil temp
Treatment for phosphorus deficiency
Superphosphate
Adjust soil pH
Apply manure
Considerations - phosphorus
Relatively immobile in soil
Avoid excessive application
Most soil is low pH
What is the chemical symbol for Potassium?
K
What is one of the roles of Potassium in plants?
- regulates water movement in plants
- activates enzymes crucial for photosynthesis
- increases resistance to disease and drought
What are symptoms of Potassium deficiency in plants?
- yellowing at leaf edges
- leaf scorching/browning
- weak stems
What are the causes of Potassium deficiency?
- sandy soils and rapid leaching
- high crop yields depleting K reserves
- imbalanced fertilization with too much nitrogen
What is a treatment for Potassium deficiency?
- apply potassium fertilizer
- use top dressing
- incorporate organic matter
- use cover crops to reduce leaching
What should be monitored to manage Potassium levels effectively?
soil potassium levels
What is the chemical symbol for Sulfur?
S
What is one of the essential roles of Sulfur in plants?
- essential for synthesis of amino acids, proteins, and vitamins
- component of enzymes and co-enzymes critical in metabolism
- helps in production and overall plant health
What are the symptoms of Sulfur deficiency in plants?
- yellowing of younger leaves
- stunted growth
- spindly stems
- poor flower/fruit development
What causes Sulfur deficiency?
- leaching
- excessive nitrogen application
- inadequate organic matter
What is a treatment for Sulfur deficiency?
apply sulfur fertilizer
What considerations should be made regarding Sulfur fertilization?
- add/retain organic matter
- consider slow-release organic sulfur sources like compost or gypsum
