The main symptom of nitrogen deficiency is leaf chlorosis. Individual leaves will become pale and yellow. In cereals, yellow discoloration from the leaf tip creates a “V” shape.
Nitrogen is a macronutrient that all plants need and is a key component in many important organic compounds such as amino acids, nucleic acids, and proteins.
Nitrogen uptake in plants occurs in the form of NO3− (ammonium nitrate), NH4+ from the soil, or N2 from the atmosphere with the aid of nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
All in all, the total content of nitrogen varies from 2 to 4% in dry plant matter.
The exact amounts, timing, and methods for fertilizers applications vary regarding the specific crops, type of soil, phase of the growth, and means of implementation.
Some nitrogen-based fertilizers
Urea, ammonium nitrate, calcium ammonium nitrate are common nitrogen-based fertilizers being used.
Important Notes
In general, plant nutrient availability depends on several processes in the soil–plant system. In order for a specific nutrient to be absorbed and utilized, some conditions have to be met.
Methods of correcting nutrient deficiencies vary according to agro-climatic regions and the magnitude of the disorder.
*Names marked in red are considered to be highly poisonous to beneficial insects.
*Names marked in green are considered to be organic and IPM (integrated pest management) compatible.