Secrets of Vegetable Growing: three things about agriculture

Absorption of nutrients through the leaves

The efficiency of absorption through the leaves depends on two main points

1- The degree of wetness of the leaves with the spray solution?

2- The time required to absorb the elements, as each element needs a certain period to be absorbed, for example, the period required to absorb different nutrients through the leaves.

The time required for absorption:

We find that there is a significant difference in the requirements for each element of time to be absorbed as follows:

Phosphorous 1-1.5 days.
Potassium 1-4 days.
Calcium 4 days.
Sulfur 8 days.
Iron 8% every 24 hours.
Manganese 2-3 days.
Molybdenum 4% every 24 hours.

Other factors significantly affect the absorption of nutrients through the leaves:

3- Air temperature and humidity. The closer the temperature is to the ideal, the faster the absorption.

And lower humidity than reasonable limits leads to lower absorption.
4- Age of leaves Small leaves with total growth are absorbed faster than large leaves.
5- The condition of the nutritional papers The response is better in the case of a deficiency in the elements.
6- The PH degree of the spray solution is preferably from 5-7 PH, and the optimum degree
7—The chemical composition of the spray solution The elements are sprayed as salts or chelating elements (shelves), and the shims are better.
8- Carriers or additives Using wet adhesive diffuser materials is preferable to give better results.

The difference between preventive and curative fungicides

Preventive fungicide:

It is a pesticide whose molecules remain on the leaf's surface and do not move into the tissues.
It works to stop the germination of the fungus spores, so it is used before the injury occurs, i.e., when the weather conditions are suitable for spreading the disease.
It can be used after the injury has occurred to prevent the transmission of the infection to the plant's healthy parts.

Therapeutic fungicide:

It is a pesticide whose molecules can penetrate into the plant's tissues.
It works to stop the development of the disease inside the plant, as it affects the growth of the mycelium and stops its penetration into the cells. It is used when the infection actually occurs, i.e., after the growth of the fungus spores and their penetration into the plant's cells.

Symptoms of nutrient deficiency in plants

When you discover the lack of nutrients, you must divide the plant into 3 parts.

When symptoms of element deficiency appear in the lower hills, then it is certain that the element is missing any of the following three components:

(nitrogen - potassium - phosphorous).

** Nitrogen:- General yellowing of the lower leaves.
** Potassium:- yellowing of the edge of the paper only appears.
** Phosphorous: A purple color appears on the paper.

When an element deficiency appears in the middle hill, then it is inevitable that one of the following element deficiencies appears. (Sulfur - Copper-Molybdenum - Magnesium).

** Sulfur:- the appearance of a general yellowing in the leaves.

** Copper: a bluish-green color appears with the death of the developing top.

** Molybdenum:- Large yellowish spots appear on the edges of the leaves.

** Magnesium:- random yellow spots appear in the veins of the leaves.

When an element shortage appears in the upper hill, one of the following elements will appear: (Iron - Manganese - Zinc). The deficiency of the element appears in the upper hill from the bottom.

(Calcium - Boron) The deficiency of the element appears in the upper hills from above
** Iron: the appearance of general yellowing.

** Manganese:- tiny yellowish spots appear.

** Zinc:- Large yellowish spots appear.

** Calcium:- distorted leaves at the top of the developing.

** Boron: - the appearance of distorted leaves with a brown color.

FAQs on Plant Health: Navigating Common Queries

Can preventive fungicides be applied after an infection occurs?

Preventive fungicides are most effective before infection; however, some may still offer benefits if applied shortly after exposure.

How quickly do leaves absorb nutrients?

Leaf absorption is a continuous process. Nutrients are absorbed within minutes to hours, depending on factors like environmental conditions and the type of nutrient.

What is the primary cause of nutrient deficiencies in plants?

Nutrient deficiencies often stem from imbalances in soil composition, inadequate fertilization, or poor absorption due to environmental stress.

Can curative fungicides be harmful to plant health?

While curative fungicides address specific diseases, their use should be judicious, as excessive application may harm plant tissues.

Is yellowing always a sign of nutrient deficiency?

Yellowing can signal nutrient deficiency, but it may also result from other factors, such as water stress, pathogens, or environmental conditions.

Can plants recover from severe nutrient deficiencies?

Plants can recover from severe deficiencies with proper intervention and nutrient correction, but early detection and treatment are crucial.

Conclusion: Nurturing Plants Holistically

As we navigate the difference between preventive and curative fungicides, explore the intricacies of leaf absorption, and recognize nutrient deficiency symptoms, we empower ourselves to cultivate thriving gardens. Nurturing plants is not just about addressing problems; it's about understanding their language and ensuring their holistic well-being.