Monday, March 30, 2009

Magnesium deficiency - azaleas


Mg deficiency first shows up on older leaves. Leaves begin to yellow near the midrib and the yellowness enlarges until the only green remaining is near the tip and near the base of the leaf, giving it a characteristic V shape. Mg is a constituent of chlorophyll and the plant transfers Mg from old leaves to new leaves - thus new leaves remain green in mild cases. Mg is also moved to developing fruit, but leaf fall and crop size reduction can result in severe Mg deficiency. Problem is more likely on acidic soils, but can occur on alkaline soils as well. Can be corrected by spreading epsom salts (Mg SO4) around under plant and watering in or by dissolving in water and spraying onto foliage. 

3 comments:

  1. Excellent coverage. Additionally if an increase in pH is required with the addition of a magnesium supplement then Dolomite can be used. This will be slower acting as chemical and organism activity will be required before changes will be seen.

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  2. Dolomite can also be used if a pH correction is also required

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  3. Hello friends,

    Magnesium is an essential nutrient for the proper functioning of many plant activities. One of these activities is photosynthesis, as magnesium is the central element of the chlorophyll molecule. It also transports phosphorus throughout the plant, is an enzyme activator and a component of many enzymes and aids in nutrient uptake control. Having so many important functions, magnesium deficiency in plants can be deadly. Thanks a lot.....

    Magnesium Supplements

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