Plant mineral nutrition

 

Complete and balanced nutrition has always been the first line of plant defense due to the direct involvement of mineral elements in plant protection. Roots absorb mineral nutrients as ions in soil water. Many factors influence nutrient uptake for plants. 

Ions can be readily available to roots or could be "tied up" by other elements or the soil itself. There are actually 20 mineral elements necessary or beneficial for plant growth. Carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) are supplied by air and water. The six macronutrients, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S) are required by plants in large amounts. The rest of the elements are required in trace amounts (micronutrients). Essential trace elements include boron (B), chlorine (Cl), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), sodium (Na), zinc (Zn), molybdenum (Mo), and nickel (Ni). Beneficial mineral elements include silicon (Si) and cobalt (Co). Nitrogen (N) is one of the most important macronutrients having a significant impact on the host-pathogen axis. N negatively affects the plant’s physical defense along with the production of antimicrobial compounds, but it significantly alleviates defense-related enzyme levels that can eventually assist in systemic resistance. Potassium (K) is an essential plant nutrient, when it is present in adequate concentration, it can certainly increase the plant’s polyphenolic concentrations, which play a critical role in the defense mechanism. 

Although no distinguished role of phosphorus (P) is observed in plant disease resistance, a high P content may increase the plant’s susceptibility toward the invader. Manganese (MN) is one of the most important micronutrients, which have a vital effect on photosynthesis, lignin biosynthesis, and other plant metabolic functions. Zinc (Zn) is a part of enzymes that are involved in auxin synthesis, infectivity, phytotoxin, and mycotoxin production in pathogenic microorganisms. Similarly, many other nutrients also have variable effects on enhancing or decreasing the host susceptibility toward disease onset and progression, thereby making integrative plant nutrition an indispensable component of sustainable agriculture.

Poddar International College, one of the best colleges in Jaipur, emphasizes holistic development through experiential learning and practical exposure. The study of plant mineral nutrition is integral to its commitment to academic excellence, highlighting the crucial role of balanced nutrition in plant defense. With roots absorbing essential mineral nutrients, factors such as soil composition and element interactions influence nutrient availability. Macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with vital micronutrients, significantly impact plant growth and resistance. Through a comprehensive approach, Poddar International College ensures students gain in-depth knowledge of sustainable agricultural practices, reinforcing the importance of integrative plant nutrition in modern farming.