Nutrients

N Nitrogen
P Phosphorus
K Potassium
Mg Magnesium
Ca Calcium
S Sulfur
B Boron
Cu Copper
Fe Iron
Mn Manganese
Zn Zinc

Maize - Growth retardation

Symptoms
The cobs of K-deficiency plants are narrowed and peaked. Grains in the cob tips are only poorly filled.

Reasons
Potassium deficiency (cobs at the right side)

Maize - Growth retardation

Symptoms
The cobs of K-deficiency plants are narrowed and peaked. Grains in the cob tips are only poorly filled.

Reasons
Potassium deficiency

Maize - Size reduced

Symptoms
Cob size is reduced and filling on cob tip is not complete

Reasons
Potassium deficiency on cobs (right)

Maize - Chlorosis

Symptoms
Yellow/bronze stripes and spots occur on the marginal area between the veins. Leaf scorch starting on leaf tips and margins spreads over the leaf blade with progressing deficiency.

Reasons
Potassium deficiency

Maize - Chlorosis

Symptoms
Yellow/bronze stripes and spots occur on the marginal area between the veins. Leaf scorch starting on leaf tips and margins spreads over the leaf blade with progressing deficiency.

Reasons
Potassium deficiency

Maize - Deformation

Symptoms
The cobs of K-deficiency plants are small and peaked. Grains in the cob tips are only poorly filled.

Reasons
Potassium deficiency

Potassium deficiency made worse by

  • Acidic soils (low pH)
  • Sandy or light soils (leaching)
  • Drought conditions
  • High rainfall (leaching)
  • or heavy irrigation
  • Heavy clay (illite) soils
  • Soils with low K reserves
  • Magnesium rich soils

Potassium is important for

  • Healthy, green foliage
  • Better root growth
  • Increased yields