Mineral & Non-Mineral Nutrients of Plants

Macronutrients are essential elements that plants require in relatively large quantities for their growth and development. The importance of macronutrients and signs of deficiency are given below in brief:

1. Nitrogen (N): It is the most vital of all macronutrients required by plants. It is a crucial component of amino acids, proteins, chlorophyll, and nucleic acids. It is essential for plant growth, photosynthesis, and the development of enzymes and hormones.
Signs of Deficiency: Yellowing of leaves (chlorosis) starting from older leaves, stunted growth.

2. Phosphorus (P): Phosphorus is involved in energy transfer and storage (ATP), cell division, and the formation of DNA and RNA. It is critical for root development, flowering, and fruiting.
Signs of Deficiency: Purplish or darkened leaves, delayed maturity, poor root development.

3. Potassium (K): Potassium regulates water uptake, osmotic pressure, and enzyme activation. It plays a vital role in photosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, and the transport of nutrients within the plant.
Signs of Deficiency: Yellowing at leaf margins, weak stems, poor disease resistance.

4. Calcium (Ca): Calcium is a structural component of cell walls, contributing to cell integrity and strength. It also facilitates nutrient uptake and plays a role in cell division.
Signs of Deficiency: Stunted root growth, distorted young leaves, blossom end rot in fruits.

5. Magnesium (Mg): Magnesium is a central component of chlorophyll, essential for photosynthesis. It also activates many enzymes involved in nutrient metabolism.
Signs of Deficiency: Yellowing between leaf veins (interveinal chlorosis), especially in older leaves.

6. Sulfur (S): Sulfur is a component of amino acids, vitamins, and coenzymes. It is essential for protein synthesis, enzyme activation, and chlorophyll formation.
Signs of Deficiency: Yellowing of young leaves, stunted growth, reduced seed and fruit production.