An Overview of Nutrient Movement in Soils and Plants.

1.0 SW CEU

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An understanding of nutrient movement in soils and plants informs nutrient management plans and aides the diagnosis of suspected nutrient deficiencies.  Nutrients that are highly mobile in soil are more likely to escape the root zone and require split applications than are immobile nutrients. Conversely, soil immobile nutrients are more likely to accumulate in the soil.  Here, we focus on common agricultural soils; that is, acidic mineral soils. In general, nutrients that may be considered mobile in soils and plants include N, K, S, Cl, and Ni.  Those considered mobile in soils but immobile in plants include Ca, B, Mn, Mo, and Co.  Nutrients immobile in soil but mobile in plants include P and Mg.  Nutrients considered immobile in both soils and plants include Cu, Fe, and Zn.  In some cases, nutrient deficiencies become apparent even though soil levels are sufficient, such as during drought (when insufficient nutrients are available in soil water) or during peak crop nutrient demand.  Thus, the identification of nutrient deficiencies in crops is dependent not just on soil and tissue testing, but also where in the plant the deficiency develops, the climate, crop growth stage, and soil type.