Potassium is well known in the gardening and agricultural world for its importance not only in growth, but also in flower and fruit formation. Preventing deficiency of this nutrient is also key to the plant’s resistance to disease. Let’s take a closer look at these functions that make it so important for plants, how to recognise a deficiency of this element, what are its most common causes and how to remedy them with the recommendations of Atami products. If you want to know all about it, read on!
Functions of Potassium
Potassium is indispensable for plant health, significantly affecting the quality of the harvest, how fruits and vegetables are formed and their firmness. It enhances the colour aroma, as well. Potassium is crucial for protein and carbohydrate synthesis, water regulation, and nutrient transport. It is especially important during the flowering period, as a shortage can lead to reduced yields.
Potassium strengthens cell tissues, boosts disease resistance, and improves water management within the plant. It also plays a key role in the functioning of stomata, which are involved in water evaporation and CO2 absorption for photosynthesis.
How to Recognize the Symptoms of Potassium Deficiency
Symptoms of potassium deficiency, often referred to as the “border disease” are easy to spot. They include darkening and curling of the leaf margins, which undergo a focused chlorosis at the edges, while the veins remain green. The first signs are dark green leaves with reduced gloss, followed by grey to yellow to brown discolouration at the edges. Chlorosis spreads to the interveinal area, where brown necrotic spots occur. Finally, the leaves curl in on themselves and die. In flowering plants, reduced flower and fruit production is evident.
Common causes of Potassium Deficiency
A potassium deficiency may occur if one or more of the following criteria are met:
• Incorrect fertilization.
• A low pH value in the soil can hinder nutrient uptake, including potassium. Potassium shows its maximum capacity to be absorbed from a pH of 6.0.
• Imbalances in nutrient ratios, such as excess calcium or nitrogen, can also reduce potassium absorption.
• Potassium that’s considered readily available for plant growth is dissolved in soil water (water soluble), so in soils that are not sufficiently moist, K availability will decrease.
How to Address Potassium Deficiency
To address potassium deficiency, adjust the substrate’s pH by irrigating with neutral pH water to improve nutrient availability. Ensure a balanced nutrient supply, avoiding excesses that interfere with potassium uptake. Using high-quality plant nutrition ensures the right balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, supporting optimal plant health and productivity. You can use potassium-rich products like Rokzbastic, B’cuzz Blossom Builder or ATA NRG Flavor.
If you found this article useful, or if you want to know more about the deficiencies and prevent your plants from suffer them, be sure to visit this other blog on this subject. Happy gardening!
