Why do plants need different nutrients at each stage?

Plants have different nutritional needs during each growth stage because they have specific physiological needs. Seeds initially depend on their own internal supplies during germination, but nitrogen promotes the growth of leaves during the vegetative stage. Flowering requires phosphorus for flower development and potassium for optimal fruit quality. Supplying nutrients to each of these stages promotes development. It prevents deficiencies, enabling the plant to achieve its potential throughout its life.

When certain nutrients are deficient, stress symptoms become visible. Yellow lower leaves signify nitrogen deficiency when growing vegetatively. Purple stems, a sign of phosphorus lockout, signify cool soils. Blossom end rot in tomatoes was corrected by applying calcium during flowering, rather than fruiting. This helps to temporally determine the interventions more precisely.

Adjust fertilizer schedules as plants transition from one phase to another. Reduce nitrogen when buds appear to prevent excessive foliage growth. Increase potassium in fruits as they swell to promote sugar content. Liquids are excellent for quick corrections during those important feedings. My pepper yields grew 40% after synchronizing the nutrients in correlation with triggers that induce flowering.

Soil testing can provide important clues every 4 to 6 weeks for determining changes in nutrient availability. Home test kits help determine NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) levels and pH values. Amend the soils according to the planting schedules. The legumes fix nitrogen and are, thus, provided for the heavy feeders such as corn. These management practices ensure that balanced nutrition is available throughout all growth cycles.

Read the full article: 6 Plant Growth Stages Explained Simply