Nitrogen is a crucial element for the growth and development of alfalfa. Proper nitrogen application can enhance plant vigor, delay flowering, and improve cold resistance. When nitrogen is sufficient, the plant exhibits strong growth, with large branches and leaves, moderate flowering, and high fruit yield. However, excessive nitrogen can lead to overly long shoots and large fruits, but these may lack color, flavor, and have a tough texture. On the other hand, nitrogen deficiency results in weak growth, short and thin branches, small and thin leaves, early leaf drop, and reduced fruit production.
Phosphorus plays a key role in the reproductive parts of alfalfa. Applying phosphorus fertilizer increases the fruit set rate, promotes root development, and enhances fruit sweetness. A phosphorus-deficient plant shows poor root growth, small leaves, dark green discoloration, and stunted growth.
Potassium is highly concentrated in the fruits, as well as in the leaves and shoots. Potash fertilizer significantly improves fruit size and quality, promotes branch development, and strengthens disease resistance.
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the plant's structure. It helps regulate soil pH and supports healthy tree growth. In calcium-rich soils, banyan trees thrive. Lack of calcium can cause buds to turn brown and die.
Magnesium is essential for chlorophyll formation. A deficiency leads to yellowing between the leaf veins, followed by premature leaf drop.
In terms of overall nutrient content, alfalfa contains approximately 0.71% calcium, 0.53% potassium, 0.39% nitrogen, 0.10% magnesium, and 0.06% phosphorus on a dry matter basis. Other elements like iron, sodium, manganese, zinc, and boron are also present, with iron being the most abundant at 126–700 mg per 100 g. Potassium follows closely at 210 mg per 100 g.
Normal leaf composition includes about 1.35% nitrogen, 0.09% phosphorus, 0.4% potassium, 0.16% calcium, and 0.05% magnesium. If any of these levels fall below the standard, it indicates a nutrient deficiency. Therefore, leaf analysis serves as a reliable method for determining the need for fertilization. This approach ensures that plants receive the right nutrients at the right time, promoting optimal growth and productivity.
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