| PLANT NUTRIENT | FORM IN WHICH IT IS ABSORBED | FUNCTION | DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS |
| Potassium | Potassium cation/k+ | -associated with enzymatic activities. It contributes in controlling stomata) opening and thus water movement in- Important in metabolism and translocation of carbohydrates.- important in neutralizing plant acids.- It strengthens plant stems and aids the uptake of nitrates | - retarded growth.- premature loss of leaves |
| Phosphorus | - Phosphate anion p0³-₃ -P₂0₅ | - It is associated with enzymatic actions.- It is also an important constituent of nuclear protein.- It strengthens the plants' skeletal structure.- It confers on plants the ability to ward off diseases.- It is essential for cell division;- essential for root development;- essential for food formation.- It hastens the ripening of fruits. | - plant becomes purple- stunting of plant parts.- poor root and bark development.- flowers, fruits and seeds fail to form. |
| Calcium | Calcium cation/Ca2+ | - It is important in cell wall formation. - It is also essential for growth of roots. - it controls toxicity of Al³⁺,Mn³⁺, and Na+. - It is equally important in translo-cation and storage of food into tubers/seeds. - It neutralizes acids in plants and takes part in metabolic activities. | - stunting of roots.- leaves turn yellowsh |
