Introduction to MineralNutrition
• Mineral nutrition involves the study of
minerals essential for plant growth.
• Plants require minerals for development,
metabolism, and reproduction.
• Minerals are absorbed as inorganic ions from
soil.
3.
Essential Elements
• Classifiedinto macronutrients and
micronutrients.
• Essential if absence prevents plant from
completing life cycle.
• Divided by quantity required.
4.
Macronutrients
• Required inlarge amounts.
• Include Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P),
Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg),
Sulfur (S).
• Constitute structural components or are
involved in metabolic activities.
5.
Micronutrients
• Required intrace amounts.
• Include Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Zinc (Zn),
Copper (Cu), Boron (B), Molybdenum (Mo),
Chlorine (Cl), Nickel (Ni).
• Play roles in enzyme function and electron
transport.
6.
Criteria of Essentiality
•Element must be necessary for normal growth
and reproduction.
• Its function must not be replaceable by
another element.
• It must be directly involved in plant
metabolism.
7.
Functions of Nitrogen
•Component of amino acids, proteins, nucleic
acids.
• Promotes vegetative growth.
• Deficiency leads to yellowing (chlorosis).
8.
Functions of Phosphorus
•Part of ATP, nucleic acids, and phospholipids.
• Important for energy transfer and root
development.
• Deficiency causes stunted growth and purple
coloration.
9.
Functions of Potassium
•Regulates stomatal opening and closing.
• Activates enzymes, involved in protein
synthesis.
• Deficiency causes leaf scorching and weak
stems.
10.
Calcium and Magnesium
•Calcium – important for cell wall and
membrane stability.
• Magnesium – central atom in chlorophyll,
enzyme activation.
• Deficiency causes weak cell walls and
interveinal chlorosis.
11.
Sulfur and MicronutrientFunctions
• Sulfur – component of amino acids like
cysteine and methionine.
• Micronutrients – cofactors in enzymes, aid
photosynthesis and respiration.
• Essential even in small quantities.
12.
Mineral Uptake Mechanisms
•Passive absorption – along concentration
gradient.
• Active absorption – against concentration
gradient using energy.
• Ions are absorbed from soil through root hairs.
13.
Translocation of Minerals
•Minerals move through xylem with water.
• Can be redistributed from older to younger
tissues.
• Regulated by transpiration and root pressure.
14.
Deficiency Symptoms
• Symptomsappear in older or younger leaves
depending on mobility.
• Chlorosis, necrosis, stunted growth,
premature leaf fall.
• Each element shows specific deficiency signs.
15.
Toxicity of MineralElements
• Excess of minerals can be harmful.
• Leads to toxicity symptoms and nutrient
imbalance.
• E.g., excess manganese can block iron and
magnesium uptake.
16.
Soil as MineralSource
• Soil provides most essential minerals.
• Mineral availability depends on soil pH,
texture, and moisture.
• Organic matter improves mineral retention.
17.
Hydroponics
• Technique ofgrowing plants in nutrient
solutions without soil.
• Used to study mineral requirements
experimentally.
• Allows precise control of nutrient supply.
18.
Role of Mycorrhizae
•Symbiotic fungi associated with plant roots.
• Help in absorption of phosphorus and water.
• Enhance plant tolerance to stress.
19.
Fertilizers and MineralSupply
• Fertilizers supplement soil nutrients.
• Include NPK fertilizers, organic manures, and
micronutrient sprays.
• Excessive use can lead to pollution and
toxicity.
20.
Mineral Nutrition inAgriculture
• Correct nutrition boosts crop yield and quality.
• Deficiency correction improves plant health.
• Integrated nutrient management is crucial.
21.
Conclusion
• Minerals arevital for plant life and ecosystem
balance.
• Balanced nutrition ensures better plant
growth and productivity.
• Understanding mineral needs helps
sustainable agriculture.