What is the difference between macronutrient and micronutrient deficiency ?
Macronutrients 1 (nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, potassium, magnesium, and calcium) constitute anywhere from a few tenths of a percent to a few percent by (dry) weight. Micronutrients 1 (boron, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, molybdenum, etc.) are trace constituents. Plant requirements for micronutrients range from a thousand- to ten thousand-times less than macronutrients. Simply put, the quantity required determines whether the nutrient is a macronutrient or a micronutrient. Regardless of the quantity required by the plant, nutrient deficiencies 2 display several physiological effects. Mild deficiencies will reduce plant growth and crop yield. Moderate deficiencies may cause leaf discoloration (chlorosis = yellowing) or abnormal growth. Severe deficiencies cause tissue necrosis (death) and, ultimately, death of the whole plant. Macronutrient deficiencies will stunt plants or kill them just as surely as micronutrient deficiencies.
