Phosphorous Deficiency
Return to physiological, nutritional, and other disorders
Phosphorous deficiency typically appears as a purpling or reddening of leaves, affecting older leaves first. Phosphorous is important for proper kernel and ear development. Often phosphorous deficiencies appear in soils with an acidic (<6.0) pH. At low pH, phosphorous will bind to other elements in the soil, causing it to become immobile and therefore unavailable to the plant.
Phosphorous deficiency in corn seedlings
(Photo: R.L. Croissant, Bugwood.org)
Phosphorous deficiency at whorl stage
(Photo: UK Vegetable IPM Team, University of Kentucky)
Management:
- Phosphorous is included in routine soil tests and should be adjusted based on test results. Generally, all phosphorous is applied preplant for sweet corn production.
