Below is information on the symptoms of nutrient deficiency for a range of different nutrients.
| Nutrient | What to look out for … |
| Nitrogen | If your plants are not getting enough nitrogen they will often be a lighter shade of green whilst lower leaves may be yellow and root, flower and fruit growth will be stunted. |
| Phosphorus | Your plant may take on a blue-ish tint or even a reddish colour. Yellow leaves which eventually turn black may be evident. |
| Potassium | The leaves will be thin and papery whilst the edges will appear to be dying, plant growth is also affected. |
| Magnesium | Yellow lower leaves will be evident and the veins of the leaves may also take on a pale, yellow appearance. Wilting may appear on the lower leaves. |
| Calcium | Calcium deficiency affects the growth of your plant and prevents the developments of younger stems and new leaves. |
| Zinc | Expect to see light coloured leaf tissue and once again a papery feel may be apparent. |
| Iron | Green veins should be visible in conjunction with yellow leaves. |
| Copper | Dark green leave edges that begin to curl upwards, young leaves also start to wilt. |
| Sulphur | Younger leaves turn pale in colour, older leaves will still be green, expect to see spindly growth. |
| Manganese | Stunted growth followed by blotchy patches of yellow on the leaves. |
| Molybdenum | Physically malformed leaves which are pale green |
| Boron | Scorched young leaves around the tips and margins. |
The effects of nutrient deficiency are often caused by multiple deficiencies rather than a lack of just one nutrient so it is important to look out for all of these symptoms. The best defence is preparation and taking the time to ensure your nutrient formula ensures your plants are provided with everything they need to grow and develop healthily.
source hydroponicsguide.co.uk
