Biology – 6.2 Plant nutrition – mineral requirements | e-Consult
6.2 Plant nutrition – mineral requirements (1 questions)
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Both nitrate and magnesium deficiencies result in stunted growth and reduced plant vigour. However, the specific symptoms differ. Nitrate deficiency primarily manifests as general chlorosis starting in the older leaves, while magnesium deficiency is characterized by interveinal chlorosis, where the areas between the veins turn yellow while the veins remain green. The progression of symptoms also differs; nitrate deficiency affects the entire leaf, while magnesium deficiency typically starts in the older leaves and progresses inwards.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Deficiency | Symptoms | Underlying Reason |
| Nitrate | General chlorosis, especially in older leaves, stunted growth, pale appearance. | Reduced chlorophyll synthesis due to lack of nitrate, impacting amino acid and protein synthesis. |
| Magnesium | Interveinal chlorosis (yellowing between veins), veins remain green, potential necrosis. | Impaired chlorophyll synthesis due to lack of magnesium, affecting enzyme activation in photosynthesis. |