Phosphorus Deficiency
Phosphorous deficiency
Common name
Phosphorous deficiency
Causal agent
It is a non-pathological disorder caused by a nutritional deficiency of phosphorus in plants. It can be due to low phosphorus in the soil, decreased acidity, dry soil conditions, and cold temperatures.
Symptoms & Signs
The lower leaves show red or purple variegation around their margins. The leaves also turn dark, dull, and pale, especially the older, mature leaves. It prevents shoot growth which leads to an increased root-to-shoot ratio. The leaves are small, stiff, and curled.
Time of concern
Throughout the year
Common hosts
Corn
Barley
Oats
Wheat
Soybean
Cotton
Canola
Alfalfa