Determine in detail about the Phosphorus
Phosphorus, with nitrogen and potassium is classed as a major nutrient element. It is a constituent of nucleic acids, phytin, phospholipids, cell membrane, chloroplast etc. An adequate early supply of phosphorus in the life of the plant is important in laying down primordia for its reproductive parts. Plants absorb most of the phosphorus as H2PO4- ions and small quantity as HPO 2-4 ions generally in the ratio of 10:1. The relative amount of ions absorbed is pH dependent. At lower pH values the H2PO4- ion is absorbed more whereas the higher pH values increase the absorption of the HPO 2-4 form. The large uptake of phosphorus is coupled with the formation of lateral and fibrous roots which increase the absorbing surfaces for other nutrients. An adequate supply of phosphorus is associated with greater strength of cereal straw. This improves the quality of certain fruits, vegetable and grain crops also.