PHOSPHORUS

Plants absorb P from the soil as primary and secondary orthophosphates (H₂PO₄⁻ and HPO₄²⁻).

Growing Point

The highest levels of P in young plants are found in tissue at the growing point. As crops mature, most P moves into the seeds, fruit, or both.

Discoloration

Under P deficiency, some crops, such as corn, tend to show discoloration.

Plant Compounds

Phosphorus is noted especially for its role in capturing and converting the sun's energy into useful plant compounds.

Root & Seedling Growth

Phosphorus promotes root development and early seedling growth.

Growth Factors

Research associates specific growth factors with P: stimulated root development, increased stalk and stem strength, and improved flower formation and seed production.

Phosphorus deficiency symptoms

Symptoms of deficiency can vary across crop species, but similarities exist for how nutrient insufficiency impacts plant tissue color and appearance. Nutrient deficiencies are commonly associated with the physical location on the plant (i.e., whether the symptoms are primarily observed on older versus newly formed plant tissue), but these symptoms can spread as the severity of the deficiency progresses.