Potassium (K) is another one of the essential macronutrients for all plants. In this article, we will introduce you to the most important functions of potassium and how plants respond to potassium deficiency and excess.
The Physiological Role of Potassium
Unlike nitrogen and phosphorus, potassium is not a component of organic compounds in plants. The main function of potassium is to participate in the metabolism of plants, such as promoting photosynthesis and the transfer of photosynthetic products, regulating ion and water balance, promoting protein metabolism, enhancing plant stress resistance, regulating enzymes and stomata in plants, and promoting protein synthesis and transportation.
Potassium contributes to the stress resistance of crops. One of the important physiological roles of potassium is to enhance the regulation of cells to environmental conditions. Potassium can enhance the tolerance of plants to various adverse conditions, such as drought, low temperature, salinity, pest damage, lodging, etc.
Potassium and phosphorus together increase the strength and resistance of root systems and plant tissues. Potassium significantly affects the color, aroma, and bud size of cannabis crops.
Effects of Potassium Deficiency
Symptoms of potassium deficiency in marijuana usually appear during the flowering period and mainly include the following:
- The leaves turn yellow from the tip to the center and end at the base of the leaf.
- With fragile and curved stems, the plants are easy to lodge.
- Reduced plant resistance to pests and diseases.
- Reduced resistance to drought and temperature extremes.
- The slow growth of flower buds reduces yield.
Effects of Excessive Potassium
When plants absorb excess potassium it will hinder the absorption of other trace elements such as calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, or iron. The leaves on the top of the cannabis will thin, burnt leaves will begin to appear on the leaf edges in the middle of the plant, flowering will start slowly, and flower growth will weaken.
When potassium is deficient, the amount of potassium-containing fertilizer can be appropriately increased, and when the potassium element is excessive, the amount of potassium-containing fertilizer should be reduced, and the medium should be washed with clean water.
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