4 Signs of Nutrient Deficiencies in Plants

Successful indoor gardening and cannabis cultivation require a keen understanding of plant health. Substantial nutrients are the keys to lively plants.

Without them, cannabis plants will suffer greatly. That’s why you must be aware of the signs of nutrient deficiencies in plants.

Brown Leaf Tips—Calcium Deficiency

Calcium fortifies the cell walls of plants and contributes to sturdy plants. It will protect plants from disease and physical damage.

The immobile nutrient cannot travel to other parts of the plant to deliver calcium as needed. It must come from a supplement such as soil conditioner or fertilizer. Insufficient calcium will cause distorted new plant growth because the plant’s cellular walls weaken, leading to visual changes such as brown leaf tips.

Red or Purple Stems—Magnesium Deficiency

Red or purple stems in plants are a classic sign of magnesium deficiency. Magnesium acts as an essential component in the process of photosynthesis.

When a plant doesn’t receive enough magnesium, it often exhibits red or purple stems. This happens because magnesium is critical for the creation of chlorophyll, the pigment that gives plants their green color and aids in photosynthesis. Without adequate magnesium, the plant may produce anthocyanins, pigments that turn the stems a reddish or purplish hue.

Curling or Yellowing Leaf Edges—Potassium Deficiency

Potassium is a vital macronutrient that contributes to plant functions such as water regulation, protein production, and disease resistance. Since the plant cannot effectively distribute water to each of the leaves, they will become curled or yellowed. This deficiency poses a significant threat to the plant’s health if not addressed promptly.

While some nutrients are essential during certain stages of the growth cycle, potassium is continuously imperative. Early recognition of potassium deficiency and swift intervention via a potassium-rich fertilizer can prevent significant damage to the plant and ensure healthy growth from seed germination to maturity.

Interveinal Chlorosis—Iron Deficiency

When plants are deficient in iron, they can’t produce enough chlorophyll, leading to a condition known as chlorosis. Initially, the leaves start yellowing between the veins while the veins themselves remain green—hence the term “interveinal.” This symptom is typically more pronounced in the younger leaves at the top of the plant.

Iron deficiency can result from various factors, including high soil pH, poor root health, or insufficient iron in the growing medium. It is important to note that iron is a micronutrient—plants need it in small amounts, but its absence can have a significant impact on plant health.

Being aware of the signs of nutrient deficiencies in plants gives you the information needed to treat the issue. Shore Grow supplies various supplements to ensure that your plant receives the nutrients it needs to thrive.

The fish sh!t soil conditioner from Fish Head Farms is an OMRI-certified organic product that’s designed to increase cannabis plant nutrient uptake and improve the quality of the end product. In the case that your plants are at risk, the healthy bacteria actively work to fight off parasites and disease while promoting a positive ecosystem.