Table of Contents
Read on to learn the essential plant nutrients for development, seed, and fruit by reading on
Growing plants is not as easy as it seems. Just like humans, plants need different nutrients for their growth and development. Few of these nutrients are needed in large amounts and are referred to as essential nutrients. While others that are needed in trace amounts are known as micronutrients.
Essential Nutrients
Essential nutrients are also known as macronutrients. These nutrients are crucial for a tree’s growth and should be provided to trees in large quantities.
Nitrogen
- Nitrogen is a part of chlorophyll and helps a plant or tree synthesize food using water and sunlight. Nitrogen is essential for stimulating the growth of stalks and leaves. Chlorophyll is the primary pigment responsible for the vibrant green color of plants. However, excess nitrogen decreases immunity and affects a tree’s ability to produce fruit.
Phosphorus
- Phosphorous strengthens the root system and increases a plant’s ability to withstand environmental stress and weather changes. It assists flower growth and increases the plant’s capacity for seed creation. Phosphorus is also essential for strengthening tissue growth in fruits and vegetables.
Potassium
- Potassium is another essential nutrient crucial for root growth and seed production. It enhances a tree’s ability to withstand extreme temperatures. A plant with sufficient potassium levels yields healthy fruits.
It works in synergy with phosphorous to protect a plant from diseases and increases its ability to heal. However, excess potassium inhibits the absorption of other minerals, such as magnesium and calcium.
Calcium
- Calcium is essential for the growth and development of plant cell walls. Well-developed cell walls increase a plant’s ability to resist diseases. It strengthens and supplements the overall tissue growth of plants.
In addition, calcium also neutralizes the acidity within the plant and surrounding environment. It also plays a vital role in nitrogen uptake by plants and is necessary for plant metabolism.
Magnesium
- Just like nitrogen, magnesium contributes to the green color of plants by boosting the production of chlorophyll. It gives a healthy green color to plants and encourages the absorption of CO2. It is also essential for the absorption of phosphorous. Plants that lack magnesium have poor color and a frail appearance.
Sulfur
- When it comes to a plant’s health, sulfur has several functions. It contributes to plant growth and the formation of seeds and increases resistance to diseases. Sulfur is also required by the plant for the production of proteins, amino acids, enzymes, and other vitamins.
Micronutrients
- Although micronutrients are needed in small amounts, they are essential for the overall well-being of your trees and plants. These are naturally present in the soil and usually not required from external sources. Therefore, they should not be added to the soil without the recommendation of an arborist.
Boron
- Born helps a tree to form seeds and fruits and controls the balance of other nutrients in the plant.
Copper
- It plays a crucial role in reproduction and assists in the absorption and digestion of other nutrients through plant roots.
Chloride
- Its function is quite similar to copper. It helps enhance a tree’s metabolic processes.
Iron
- Iron plays an essential part in chlorophyll synthesis.
Manganese
- Manganese and zinc support the enzymatic system of a tree. In addition, it digests carbohydrates and converts nitrogen to a usable form.
Molybdenum
It works in combination with manganese to convert nitrogen.
Only a certified arborist knows when and how much nutrients to provide. If your tree is not growing correctly, consult an arborist to help you find the right solution.
If you suspect that your plants and trees are experiencing a nutrient deficiency, then contact American Tree Experts Inc today. We are a professional tree pruning and nutrient management company. Call us at 973-774-6091 and let our nutrient management experts help you bring your garden back to life.