Nitrogen (N)

Nitrogen is required in large amounts during periods of rapid vegetative growth or regrowth. There is a direct correlation between the amount of available nitrogen and crop yield. It is also one of the more mobile nutrients – both throughout the plant, and through the environment.

Phosphorus (P)

Phosphorous stimulates root, flower, and fruit development, and overall crop maturity. It also increases water use efficiency and contributes to disease resistance. Phosphorous is most readily available in soils with a pH of 6.5-7.0. At higher pH, it becomes fixed (tied up) by calcium. At lower pH, it is tied up by aluminum and iron.

Potassium (K)

Potassium is essential to the transport of sugars and the formation of starches and oil. It promotes root growth and increases a plant’s resistance to disease and environmental stresses. Potassium also improves the size and quality of fruits, nuts, and grains, and is essential for high-quality forage.

Sulfur (S)

About 90% of the sulfur absorbed by plants is found in amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Sulfur is also essential for chlorophyll formation. It has been shown to increase the synthesis of oils, especially in oil crops such as canola, soybeans, or flax.

Copper (Cu)

Copper aids in root metabolism and the utilization of proteins. Copper is essential for better stalks or stems and standability. It is also key to seed coat resiliency, disease control, test weight, and seed size.

Iron (Fe)

Iron is required for the formation of chlorophyll in plant cells. It activates respiration, photosynthesis, and symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Low iron levels in the plant result in poor energy transfer from leaves to growing points or fruiting structures thus slowing growth and reducing yields.

Boron (B)

Critical for seed development.

Boron is necessary for cell division and differentiation. It helps maintain a balance between sugar and starch and aids in the movement of calcium. Boron is also essential for the germination of the pollen grains and pollen tubes in plants and has a direct effect on yield. No pollination, no crop.

Manganese (Mn)

Manganese is needed for phosphorus and magnesium uptake and aids in the utilization of nitrogen, accelerating seed germination and maturity. Because it plays a major role in the production of chlorophyll, it directly affects the health of the crop and a plant’s ability to reach maturity.

Molybdenum (Mo)

Molybdenum acts as a catalyst in nitrate reduction, and in nitrogen transport and utilization within the plant. Molybdenum is also associated with disease resistance in plants.

Zinc (Zn)

Zinc is necessary for chlorophyll and carbohydrate production. High yields are impossible without zinc due to its importance in growth, metabolism, and photosynthesis. High soil phosphorus, soil organic matter, biological activity, and irrigation play a role in zinc availability.