Potassium is an indispensable constituent for the correct development of plants. It is important in photosynthesis, in the regulation of plants responses to light through opening and closing of stomata. Potassium is also important in the biochemical reactions in plants. Basically, potassium (K) is responsible for many other vital processes such as water and nutrient transportation, protein, and starch synthesis. Functions of Potassium in plantsPotassium (K) essentially plays a major role in plant physiological processes. Therefore, it is required in large amounts for proper growth and reproduction in plants. It is considered vital after nitrogen as far as nutrients needed by plants are concerned. It is also termed "the quality nutrient" for its contributing factor in a number of biological and chemical processes in plants. Here is why Potassium is important in plants: Potassium regulates the opening and closing of stomata thus regulating the uptake of CO2 thus enhancing photosynthesis. It triggers the activation of important biochemical enzymes for the generation of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). ATP provides energy for other chemical and physiological processes such as excretion of waste materials in plants. It plays a role in osmoregulation of water and other salts in plant tissues and cells. Potassium also facilitates protein and starch synthesis in plants. It activates enzymes responsible for specific functions. Potassium deficiency in plants Regardless of its availability from soils, potassium deficiency may occur and might start from the lower leaves and progress towards other vital parts of the plants. Deficiency might cause abnormalities in plants affecting reproduction and growth. Severity depends on the type of plant and soil. Some of the potassium deficiency symptoms may include Chlorosis: May cause yellowing of leaves, the margin of the leaves may fall off, and also lead to shedding and defoliation of the leaves.
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