A guide to Nutrient Deficiencies – Magnesium

Magnesium deficiency is a common nutritional disorder in horticulture that affects plants when they receive inadequate levels of magnesium (Mg).

Magnesium is an essential macronutrient for plant growth, playing a crucial role in various physiological processes. When plants don’t receive enough magnesium, they can display a range of symptoms, and if left untreated, it can have detrimental impacts on plant health and productivity.

What are the symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency?

• Interveinal Chlorosis: One of the most prominent symptoms of magnesium deficiency is interveinal chlorosis, where the tissue between the veins of older leaves turns yellow while the veins remain green. This yellowing occurs because magnesium is a central component of chlorophyll, the green pigment essential for photosynthesis.
• Leaf Curling: In severe cases, leaves may exhibit curling or cupping, along with the interveinal chlorosis.
• Stunted Growth: Insufficient magnesium can lead to reduced plant growth, both in terms of height and overall size.
• Leaf Drop: Affected plants may drop their older leaves prematurely.
• Reduced Fruit Production: Fruit development and quality can be compromised in fruit-bearing plants.

Magnesium Deficiency in Cham. Laws. Ellwoodii

What are the impacts of Magnesium Deficiency?

• Reduced Photosynthesis: Magnesium is a critical component of chlorophyll, and its deficiency can hinder photosynthesis, which is essential for plant energy production and growth.
• Poor Nutrient Uptake: Magnesium deficiency can impair the plant’s ability to absorb other nutrients, leading to secondary nutrient deficiencies.
• Lower Crop Yields: In agricultural and horticultural settings, magnesium deficiency can result in decreased crop yields and quality, impacting the economic viability of the crop.

Magnesium Deficiency in Ficus

How should you manage Magnesium Deficiency?

• Soil Testing: Begin by conducting a soil test to determine the magnesium content in your soil. This will help you assess the severity of the deficiency.
• Fertilisation: If the soil test reveals a magnesium deficiency, you can address it through fertilisation. Common magnesium sources include magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) and dolomitic lime. Apply these materials as recommended based on the soil test results.
• Foliar Sprays: In acute cases or for a quick response, foliar sprays of magnesium-containing fertilisers can be applied to the plant’s leaves. This allows for rapid nutrient uptake. Make sure to follow recommended application rates.
• Organic Matter: Incorporating organic matter into the soil can help improve magnesium availability over the long term.
• pH Management: Adjusting soil pH can influence magnesium availability. In acidic soils, magnesium may become less available to plants, so raising the pH to a more neutral level can help.
• Proper Irrigation: Ensure that your irrigation practices are not contributing to nutrient leaching. Properly timed and measured irrigation can help nutrients, including magnesium, stay available to plants.
• Crop Rotation: Practicing crop rotation can help mitigate nutrient deficiencies, including magnesium, by preventing continuous cropping of plants with similar nutrient demands.

Magnesium Deficiency in Guzmania

It’s essential to monitor the progress of magnesium deficiency management and adjust your fertilisation and cultural practices as needed. Regular soil testing and plant observation will help ensure the health and productivity of your horticultural crops.