What are the basic functions of phosphorus for plant growth?
Think of phosphorus as a type of plant growth regulator. It is the energizer in plant development and is essential in capturing and storing energy during photosynthesis. It becomes an organic compound called adenosine triphosphate or ATP. In this form, it becomes the primary provider of energy needed to power many plant processes…such as: • Photosynthesis and the storage of sunlight energy • Formation of simple sugars • Use of sugars and starch for plant growth • Transfer of energy during plant chemical reactions • Maintenance and transfer of a plant’s genetic code • Development of new plant cells • Germination, size, number and viability of seed How does phosphorus help plants tolerate stress? The answers can be found in the functions of phosphorus in plant growth. The following soil and crop conditions serve as indicators of when phosphorus might be in short supply and how phosphorus helps plants cope with conditions associated with stress. Soil acidity can be highly variable withi
