Maximum Yield Australia/New Zealand July/August 2020 | Page 46

PHOSPHORUS
AN ESSENTIAL ELEMENT FOR PLANTS
Among the crucial nutrients for plant growth and health, phosphorus is
vital in all stages of plant cultivation. Monica Mansfield discusses why the
element is key for all plants to thrive. by Monica Mansfield
On the front of every fertiliser bottle are three numbers
that tell you how much nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and
potassium (K) it contains, otherwise known as the NPK. These
are macronutrients and are essential for plant growth, but
what exactly do they do for our plants and why are they so
important? Let’s look at the second number, phosphorus, and
why it is essential for your plants to thrive.
What is Phosphorus?
Phosphorus is a chemical element with the atomic
number 15. It’s highly reactive and is found in ATP, DNA,
RNA, phospholipids, and the Earth’s crust. The majority
of mined phosphates are used in fertilisers, but are also
ingredients in detergents, pesticides, and nerve agents.
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