Nutrients are chemical elements and compounds necessary for plant survival. They are absorbed from the environment in different ways, and each type of plant has different nutrient requirements. Micronutrients, also known as trace elements, are important for healthy growth and all plant life functions, but only need to be consumed in small quantities. The well-known nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are not micronutrients, but are macronutrients. Find out more about micronutrients here and how you can recognize deficiency symptoms and avoid them through proper fertilization!
The micronutrient copper (Co)
Copper is required as an important component of enzymes for photosynthesis. It is also necessary for the lignification of plant parts and for the formation of buds and seeds as well as the stabilization of cell walls. If plants get too little copper, this can lead to dwarfism and inhibited iron absorption. Too much inhibits lignification, bud and flower development and leads to premature sprouting of side shoots and light yellow leaves.
Plants need zinc (Zn)
Zinc is essential for the development of proteins and the activation of enzymes. It is necessary for the formation of leaves, pollen and seeds. It also affects the growth of plants. If there is a zinc deficiency, the growth of the plants is inhibited and the leaves are not fully formed. If there is an excess, root growth may be inhibited and photosynthesis may be disrupted. Furthermore, too much zinc in the soil can cause iron deficiency.
Sufficient iron (Fe) in the soil is important
Iron is involved in photosynthesis and the production of leafy greens. The micronutrient is important for the formation of seeds and buds in plants. Iron deficiency leads to light green to whitish leaves, although the veins of the leaves initially remain green. Roots and flowers remain small. If there is an excess of iron, a manganese deficiency can occur and the leaves become discolored - the tips of older leaves turn brown first.
Manganese (Mn) for metabolism
Manganese plays a large role in the oxygen production of plants, influences the growth of roots and helps heal damaged leaves. It activates certain enzymes, influences energy balance and is part of important metabolic functions. If the plants cannot absorb enough, growth is inhibited and chlorosis occurs. If there is an excess of manganese, the leaves develop brown and purple spots and the side shoots develop too early. The transport of calcium is also disrupted if there is too much manganese.
The building block boron (B)
Boron is responsible for the transport of carbohydrates and the synthesis of protein. The micronutrient helps develop and stabilize cell membranes. The growth of plants is promoted by stimulating cell division. If there is a lack of boron, roots die, cavities appear in the stem, young leaves remain narrow and old leaves turn yellowish. If there is too much boron, the leaves curl up, turn yellowish and fall off.
Molybdenum (Mo) as an important nutrient
Molybdenum is necessary for the activation of enzymes and enzyme metabolism. It is also involved in phosphorus metabolism and nitrate reduction, which is why a molybdenum deficiency leads to an accumulation of nitrate within plants. This causes leaves to become misshapen, turn purple, or have orange discoloration on the edges of the leaves. Too much molybdenum can be recognized by a golden yellow discoloration.
Chlorine (Cl) for plant development
Chlorine is an important component for the splitting of water during photosynthesis. Chlorine is also necessary for a functioning water balance. Chlorine can help plants overcome diseases. A lack of chlorine is rare but can cause plants to wilt. An oversupply of chlorine leads to chlorosis and necrosis at the leaf tips. The leaves curl up before eventually falling off.
Other plant nutrients
There are other micronutrients such as sodium, silicon, aluminum, selenium and cobalt, which also have an influence on plant growth. However, the exact importance of the substances for plants has not yet been scientifically proven.
Fertilize with micronutrients
The FARBIO® organic microcomplex is a premium fertilizer with nanoparticles for use on your green and house plants, fruit, vegetable and herb crops. For the rapid absorption of complex micronutrients and strengthening of the self-protection mechanism.
