What is chlorosis, and how is it linked to magnesium deficiency?

Sourav PanNovember 12, 2024

Answered

Chlorosis is a condition in plants characterized by the yellowing of leaf tissue due to insufficient chlorophyll production. This lack of chlorophyll impairs the plant’s ability to perform photosynthesis effectively, which can lead to reduced growth and, if untreated, potentially the death of the plant. Chlorosis can be caused by various factors, including nutrient deficiencies, poor drainage, high soil pH, and root damage.

Link Between Chlorosis and Magnesium Deficiency

Magnesium deficiency is one of the primary causes of chlorosis in plants. Magnesium (Mg) is an essential macronutrient that plays a critical role in several physiological processes:

• Chlorophyll Production: Magnesium is a central component of chlorophyll molecules. Without adequate magnesium, plants cannot synthesize enough chlorophyll, leading to chlorosis, particularly noticeable as yellowing between the veins of older leaves—a symptom known as interveinal chlorosis.
• Photosynthesis: Since magnesium is vital for chlorophyll formation, its deficiency directly impacts photosynthesis. Affected plants exhibit reduced photosynthetic efficiency, which can stunt growth and diminish overall vitality.
• Nutrient Mobility: Magnesium is mobile within the plant, meaning that when it is deficient, the plant reallocates available magnesium from older leaves to younger leaves where it is more needed. As a result, older leaves often show symptoms of chlorosis first.

Symptoms Specific to Magnesium Deficiency

• Interveinal Chlorosis: Yellowing occurs between the veins while the veins themselves remain green. This distinct pattern helps differentiate magnesium deficiency from other nutrient deficiencies.
• Leaf Curling and Dropping: In severe cases, leaves may curl or drop prematurely due to stress from insufficient magnesium.
• Necrotic Spots: As the deficiency progresses, necrotic spots may develop within the chlorotic areas of older leaves