Mineral nutrition refers to the process by which plants absorb essential minerals from the soil in order to facilitate their growth and development. Minerals are inorganic nutrients that play crucial roles in various physiological processes within plants. Some of the essential minerals required by plants include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, molybdenum, and boron.
These essential minerals are classified into two categories based on the amount required by plants. Macronutrients are required in large quantities, while micronutrients are required in smaller quantities. Macronutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, while micronutrients include iron, zinc, copper, manganese, molybdenum, and boron.
Plants absorb these minerals through their roots from the soil solution. The process of mineral absorption is facilitated by root hairs, which have a large surface area and help to increase the plants' ability to take up nutrients from the soil. Once absorbed, minerals are transported throughout the plant via the xylem and phloem to where they are needed for various physiological processes.
Deficiencies in essential minerals can lead to a range of symptoms in plants, such as stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and reduced yields. Therefore, it is crucial for plants to have access to a balanced supply of essential minerals in order to thrive and reach their full growth potential. Farmers and gardeners can supplement the soil with mineral fertilizers to ensure that plants have an adequate supply of nutrients for optimal growth and development.
1. In details explain the following:
A. Miniral nutrition
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