Magnesium Deficiency

Mg2+ is a fundamental macronutrient pivotal to various physiological and metabolic processes in horticultural crops, profoundly influencing the yield and quality of fruits, vegetables, and root crops. For instance, a study revealed that Mg2+ supplementation in ‘Red Fuji’ apple trees bolstered nitrogen utilization, enhanced photosynthesis, and encouraged anthocyanin biosynthesis, thereby elevating fruit size, weight, and yield.

Problems caused by deficiency

Increased susceptibility to pests & diseases

Stunted growth. Crops vary in their sensitivity to low soil magnesium.

yellowing of leaves and flowers

Potential Causes

In acid soils, aluminum (Al), the hydronium ion (H+), and manganese (Mn) can reduce magnesium uptake by plants. In basic soils, calcium (Ca) and sodium (Na) imbalance can outcompete / displace magnesium uptake. When higher rates of ammonium (NH4+) forms of nitrogen have been applied with manure fertilizers, magnesium levels in plants can be lower. The same effect occurs where higher potassium (K) rates have been applied or where soils are naturally high in K, such as in arid regions.

Poorly managed soils ; compaction, heavy use of synthetic fertilisers & pesticides over-cultivation. poorly drained soils

Excess water uptake ; over irrigation

Irrigation with water containing high calcium levels ; calcium can bind with magnesium and avoid it from being absorbed by plants

Excess water uptake ; over irrigation

Irrigation with water containing high calcium levels ; calcium can bind with magnesium and avoid it from being absorbed by plants

Heavy metal contamination

High Salinity

How to increase Mg in Soil

Keep soil moist

Choose high-magnesium plants eg dandelion, chickweed to help maintain heathy magnesium balance

Apply magnesium sulphate or epsom salts

Avoid fertilizer with nitrogen

Influence of magnesium supplementation on crop tolerance to various environmental stresses: a summary of studies.

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Effects of magnesium deficiency on crop yield and quality.

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