3 - PLANT NUTRITION AND TRANSPORT 

Minerals for healthy growth 

Deficiencies - 

1 - Nitrates 

• Contain nitrogen for making amino acids and proteins 
• Needed for cell growth 
• Stunted 
• Yellow older leaves 

2 - Phosphates 

• Contain phosphorus for making DNA and cell membranes 
• Needed for respiration and growth 
• Poor root growth 
• Purple older leaves 

3 - Potassium 

• Helps enzymes needed for photosynthesis and respiration 
• Poor flower and fruit growth 
• Discoloured leaves 

4 - Magnesium (small amounts) 

• Needed for making chlorophyll 
• Yellow leaves