The Farm – Page 2 – Homestead on the Range

Phosphorus in Plants

Phosphorus deficiency in corn

Phosphorus is associated with fruit production in the minds of gardeners because it is the most important element for germination and growth.

Photo courtesy of USDA ARS.

Because plants contain so much nitrogen, it is little wonder that they require ample amounts. Without it, plants simply cannot grow.

Plants use molybdenum for one purpose, but that purpose is of tremendous importance—producing enzymes to enable the plant to use nitrogen.

Effect of manganese on yield in rye; control on left, treated crop on right

Manganese is an important micronutrient. It helps to activate some of the key enzyme systems in plants. But it has many other roles, too.

Magnesium deficiency symptoms on apple leaves

Magnesium serves two roles affecting plants. One is improving plant health via the soil, and the other is improving plant health directly.

Iron deficiency in peaches; note the pale leaf color

Did you know that plants need iron? No iron, no chlorophyll, and therefore no photosynthesis.

“Fitting the Collar” is a handy online video that explains the subject well. A must for current or future draft horse owners.

Copper is of particular importance to cereal crops because of its role in reproductive growth and grain production.

In recent years, it has come to light that cobalt is indeed an essential micronutrient for at least some plant species, particularly legumes.

You may be surprised to know that chlorine is an important nutrient in plants. It plays a key role in splitting water to produce oxygen.