DisorderMedium Severity

Nitrogen Deficiency

Nutrient disorder (N deficiency)

A common nutrient deficiency that affects plant protein production and overall growth. Nitrogen is essential for forming proteins critical for all plant growth processes. Plants take up nitrogen as ammonium or nitrate ions from soil.

Peak Season: Most apparent during periods of rapid growth (spring/early summer), symptoms worsen with continued growth without adequate nitrogen
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Nitrogen deficiency showing characteristic yellowing of older leaves

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Leaves uniformly yellow-green (chlorosis), more pronounced in older leaves
Leaves become small and thin
High fall color but dropping early
Compound leaves develop fewer leaflets
Shoots and internodes short and small in diameter
Shoots may be reddish or reddish brown
Heavy flowering but may be delayed
Light fruit set with small, highly-colored fruit maturing early
In conifers: needles become chlorotic, short, and close together
Conifer seedlings remain in primary needle stage with little branching
Poor needle retention in older conifers
Lower crowns chlorotic while upper crowns remain green

Potential Damage

Reduced photosynthetic capacity from chlorosis
Stunted growth and reduced vigor
Smaller leaves and reduced foliage density
Poor fruit and seed production
Increased susceptibility to other stresses
Reduced aesthetic value in ornamental plantings

Lifecycle

Nitrogen deficiency develops when soil nitrogen is insufficient for plant needs, when nitrogen is tied up by organic matter decomposition, or when environmental conditions prevent root uptake. Deficiency is more common in sandy soils with low organic matter and during periods of rapid growth when nitrogen demand is highest.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Soil testing to confirm nitrogen levels and determine appropriate fertilizer rates

2

Application of nitrogen-containing fertilizers (ammonium or nitrate forms)

3

Organic matter addition to improve soil nitrogen retention

4

Proper timing of fertilizer applications during active growth periods

5

Professional assessment for systemic nutrient injection programs

6

Monitor and adjust pH levels for optimal nitrogen availability

Recommended Mauget Products

Inject-A-Min Iron Zinc

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against nitrogen deficiency.

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Professional nitrogen fertilizer programs

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against nitrogen deficiency.

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