A Guide to Identifying Nutrient Deficiencies in Plants

Your plant’s leaves can reveal a lot about their overall health. Changes in color, texture, or shape often indicate specific nutrient deficiencies. Here’s how to recognize common deficiencies and address them effectively.

Common Deficiencies and Their Symptoms

Phosphorus (P)

• Leaves turn reddish or purple. Growth is significantly stunted.

Magnesium (Mg)

• Older leaves turn yellow between veins, often with a marbled pattern.

Potassium (K)

• Leaf edges appear brown or burned. Plants lose strength.

Nitrogen (N)

• Uniform yellowing of leaves, especially older ones, accompanied by reduced growth.

Manganese (Mn)

• Yellowing with dark spots between veins; mottling appears on young leaves.

Iron (Fe)

• New leaves turn yellow but retain green veins, typically on the upper parts of the plant.

Zinc (Zn)

• Small, distorted leaves with yellowing between veins.

Boron (B)

• Irregular leaf growth, distorted shapes, and dry or black tips.

Calcium (Ca)

• Young leaves show yellow or brown edges. Growth is stunted.

How to Address Deficiencies

• Balanced Fertilization: Choose fertilizers that provide both macro and micronutrients.
• Soil Testing and Improvement: Check and adjust soil pH, as improper levels can block nutrient uptake.
• Proper Watering: Both overwatering and underwatering can interfere with nutrient absorption.

Key Insight: Regular observation allows you to catch issues early. Small adjustments in care can restore plant health and growth.