Elements

Question 1

Nitrogen (N)

Answer 1

• building block of amino acids, enzymes, protein, DNA, chlorophyll
• most commonly deficient essential plant nutrient (plant uses more of it than other nutrients)
• stimulates new, green, growth

Question 2

phosphorus (P)

Answer 2

• imp. for early growth and root formation
• starter fertilizers have more phosphorus than any other nutrient
• crucial component of phospholipid bilayer in cell membrane, proteins, enzymes, ATP
• phosphorus in water is harmful to the environment (don’t want in waterways)

Question 3

potassium (K)

Answer 3

• important component of water regulation
• impacts membrane permeability and H+ regulation
• effects root growth/hardiness
• mobile in soil, no env. concern

Question 4

magnesium

Answer 4

• central element of chlorophyll
• facilitates numerous enzymatic reactions

Question 5

sulfur

Answer 5

• constituent of amino acids and proteins
• activates enzyme systems
• found in aromatic cells –> leads to its smell and taste of onion, garlic, mustard, cabbage