Leaf Health & Deficiencies
Nutrient Deficiency
A nutrient deficiency occurs when a cannabis plant does not receive enough of an essential nutrient needed for healthy growth. This shortage leads to visible symptoms and reduced plant performance.
What Nutrient Deficiency Is in Cannabis Plants
Nutrient deficiency is a plant health condition that develops when an essential nutrient is absent, insufficient, or unavailable for uptake by the roots. In cannabis cultivation, nutrient deficiencies are among the most common growth problems and can significantly affect plant development, yield, and overall vitality if not addressed.
Why Cannabis Plants Need Balanced Nutrients
Cannabis plants require a balanced supply of macronutrients and micronutrients to support core biological processes such as photosynthesis, enzyme activity, cell division, and structural growth. When one or more nutrients are lacking, these processes become disrupted, resulting in characteristic visual and physiological symptoms that vary depending on the specific nutrient involved.
How Deficiency Symptoms Appear and Progress
Deficiency symptoms often appear in predictable patterns. Mobile nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, typically show first on older leaves as the plant reallocates nutrients to new growth. Immobile nutrient deficiencies, including calcium and iron, usually affect newer leaves because those nutrients cannot be moved once deposited in plant tissue.
Common Causes and Effects of Nutrient Deficiency
Nutrient deficiencies are not always caused by a lack of nutrients in the growing medium. Improper pH, salt buildup, root damage, or poor oxygen availability can prevent nutrient uptake even when nutrients are present. If left uncorrected, deficiencies can slow growth, reduce photosynthesis, weaken plant structure, and increase susceptibility to disease. Early identification and correction are essential to restoring balanced growth and maintaining plant health.
Related terms:
Macronutrients, Micronutrients, Nutrient Uptake, pH Imbalance, Deficiency Symptoms, Chlorosis, Root Zone, Plant Health.
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