Common Nutrient Deficiency Symptoms
Wheat
 
 
Nitrogen Deficiencies:
Nitrogen Deficiency 
 Nitrogen Deficiency
 Nitrogen Deficiency Nitrogen Deficiency
 
 Symptom: 
Pale green leaf coloration 
  • lower leaves are paler
  • plants are stunted
Causes: 
  1. under-application of N fertilizer needs
  2. leaching of nitrate after heavy rain
  3. loss of N as a gas after water ponding or  in compacted sites
Remedies: (Corresponds to numbers above) 
  1. apply appropriate fertilizer N rate
  2. apply topdress of N before boot stage
  3. install drainage tiles in heavier soils and/or minimize field compaction
 
Other nutrient deficiency symptoms are not very obvious.  Testing the soil for nutrient levels is the only sound approach to determine whether fertilizer applications are necessary.
We appreciate the use of those photographs which were contributed by the Potash and Phosphate Institute and Farmland Industries.

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