What are common symptoms of nutrient deficiencies in ornamental plants?

Common symptoms of nutrient deficiencies in ornamental plants often manifest as yellowing leaves and stunted growth. These symptoms can typically indicate several specific nutrient deficiencies. For instance, nitrogen deficiency may lead to chlorosis, especially in older leaves, causing them to turn yellow while the veins remain green. This occurs because nitrogen is vital for producing chlorophyll, which is essential for photosynthesis.

Stunted growth accompanies nutrient deficiencies as plants struggle to develop properly without the necessary elements required for cell division and growth processes. The lack of nutrients such as phosphorus and potassium can impede root development and overall plant vigor, culminating in reduced growth. In contrast, options like brown spots on leaves generally suggest damage due to factors such as diseases or environmental stress rather than direct nutrient issues, while increased flower production and fast root development are not typical indicators of nutrient deficiency.