Deficiencies of plant-food nutrients are usually indicated by a general reduction of growth in garden plants. Chlorosis or poor foliage color often is also apparent.
Likewise, the poor light and unfavorable temperatures to which houseplants are frequently exposed result in unsatisfactory growth and an anemic appearance. This condition may be due to these factors or to a combination of mineral deficiencies.
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However, insects and diseases also often cause symptoms that are mistaken for mineral deficiencies. (See illustration opposite.)
Typical Mineral Deficiency Symptoms
- Nitrogen deficiency results in stunting or dwarfing of the plant, with leaves becoming small and yellow-green.
- Phosphorus deficiency also shows itself in short, stunted growth, sometimes with yellowing of leaf margins.
- Potassium deficiency can be detected when the margins of the leaf become yellow at first and then turn brown. The lower leaves are affected first and often have a purplish cast.
- Iron deficiency causes chlorosis of the leaves between the veins, while the veins remain green. In severe cases, the entire leaf also may become yellow. Young leaves usually show deficiency first.
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