Understanding Plant Nutrition

Eighteen elements are considered essential for plant growth. Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen are primarily supplied by air and water. Plant roots absorb the remaining 15 elements from the surrounding soil.

These elements are divided into three groups based on their relative abundance in plants: Primary Nutrients (or Major Nutrients), Secondary Nutrients (or Minor Nutrients), and Trace Nutrients (or Micronutrients). Although the Major Nutrients are needed in the greatest quantities, a deficiency of any one nutrient can prevent plant growth, or reduce it to unsatisfactory levels. Even though some soils may already contain these nutrients, they may not be in a form available for plant growth. The best way to ensure that all of the nutrients are available in the soil is through regular applications of plant foods.

Here you will see an explanation of the Primary Nutrients, and why they are necessary. Espoma Tones contain ALL 15 essential nutrients; So, they can cure all of the nutrient deficiencies discussed here. Espoma Tones are very safe, and environmentally responsible products, which promote the health and well being of our surroundings, and those of our children.

Nitrogen promotes vigorous growth and dark green color. If you have a deficiency, you may notice light green leaves, or stunted growth. Good solutions include dried blood, garden manure, cottonseed meal, ammonium sulfate, and urea.

The function of phosphorus is root development & flowering. Deficiency symptoms include smaller yields of seeds, and fruit, and purplish leaves, stems, and branches.Rock phosphate, bone meal, single superphosphate, and triple superphosphate are all good solutions to this problem.

Potassium gives plants overall hardiness and disease resistance. Reduced yields, spotted or curled leaves, and weak root systems are all signs of a problem. Try sulfate of potash, sulfate of potash magnesia, muriate of potash, or greensand, to take care of the issue.