Nutrient Deficiencies
- Nitrogen
- Phosphorous
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Sulphur
- Boron
- Copper
- Iron
- Manganese
- Molybdenum
- Zinc
- Herbicide Damage in a Range of Crops
- Fertilisers Damage
- Lime deficiency
Locations of Nutrient Deficiency Symptoms
The table below is a guide to the symptoms of possible nutrient deficiency in a range of crops. The nutrients mobility within the plant will help identify the nutrient deficiency. For example symptoms caused by deficiencies of an “immobile” nutrient will occur on the upper or younger leaves. The older leaves will remain green and free of symptoms because these immobile nutrients do not move or translocate from them.
| Nutrient | Position on plant | Chlorosis? | Leaf margin necrosis? | Colour & leaf shape |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N | All leaves | Yes | No | Yellowing of leaves & leaf veins |
| P | Older leaves | No | No | Purplish patches |
| K | Older leaves | Yes | Yes | Yellow patches |
| Mg | Older leaves | Yes | Yes | Yellow patches |
| Ca | Young leaves | Yes | No | Deformed leaves |
| S | Young leaves | Yes | No | Yellow leaves |
| Mn, Fe | Young leaves | Yes | No | Interveinal chlorosis |
| B, Zn, Cu, Mo | Young leaves | -- | -- | Deformed leaves |
