What Are the Functions of Phosphorus Fertilizer?
The California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom reports that phosphorus is one of 17 chemicals that plants require for healthy growth and to maintain reproductive functions. Description According to the California Foundation, phosphorus is part of the DNA of all plants, in which it forms a part of the cell wall. Content The North Carolina Department of Environment & Natural Resources reports that all plants require phosphorus but that the majority of the phosphorus in soil is in surface soil. To counter this, phosphorus fertilizers are usually worked into the root system of plants for immediate absorption. Fixation The California Foundation explains that a process called fixation allows phosphate ions to react with the soil to allow phosphorus to be broken down into usable fertilizer for the plant. Uses Phosphorus fertilizers are commonly used on crops and plants in cold weather zones, such as lettuce which has rapid growth requiring fast use of phosphorus. Harvested Crops P
