Potassium Deficiency in Plants
Potassium deficiency is rare in nature, as this essential nutrient is abundant. Still, it can occur in agricultural settings when the amount of potassium in the soil has been decreasing due to continuous usage of this mineral by plants. This will tamper with the plant's survival ability, as potassium is vital in regulating water movements and uptake, building drought and pest resistance, regulating growth, and helping with photosynthesis. It is more common on light sandy soils or soils with low clay content, allowing water to wash off easily and flush the nutrients. The crops that tend to be most affected are fruits and vegetables, like potatoes, tomatoes, apples, and some cereals.