Thread by @PhiriDivah

The role of elements in the plant.As with living things , plants require nutrients to grow. Knowledge of plants need to function optimally is essential in achieving top yields.Before crop specific requirements can be determined, an understanding of the role of each

element is required.Elements are conventionally divided into three categories:
1.Primary Elements - N, P and K
2.Secondary Elements - Can, Mg and S
3.Micro or Trace Elements Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Mo, Cl, So, Co and V.
Nitrogen (N) is mainly associated with vegetative growth and also

the green colour of plants. It also plays an important role in the photosynthesis process, the reproductive phase(flower differentiation)and the genetic identification of a plant. Lastly it helps with uptake and distribution of other nutrients

Phosphorus (P) is essential for normal plant growth and is especially important for capturing the sun's energy and converting it to useful plant compounds. It is also required for cell division, root growth, flower set and ripening of fruits.Phosphorus promotes disease resistance

in plants, and also plays a crucial role in seed development.
Potassium (K) will not be found in organic compounds or in the structure of the plant , but is present in the plant sap. This element regulates the movement of the stomata and is directly responsible for the quality of

fruits as well as drought- and heat resistance of a plant.Calcium (Ca) promotes the formation of proteins essential for cell growth.It also affects pectin formation, the translocation of sugars and root hair formation. Calcium has the ability to neutralize toxins

produced in the plant itself and is associated with improved quality and shelf life of fruits.