Teaming With Nutrients

Synopsis

?"Gets deep into the weeds, so to speak, of the microscopic architecture of plants and the biochemical processes at play." -Washington Post Most gardeners realize that plants need to be fed, but many of us know little about the nature of the science involved. In Teaming with Nutrients, Jeff Lowenfels explains the basics of plant nutrition from an organic gardener's perspective. In his trademark down-to-earth, style, Lowenfels explains the role of both macronutrients and micronutrients and shows gardeners how to provide these essentials through organic, easy-to-follow techniques. Along the way, Lowenfels provides easy-to-grasp lessons in the biology, chemistry, and botany needed to understand how nutrients get into the plant and what they do once they're inside.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Power of Nutrients

* Summary: Nutrients are essential for plant growth and productivity. They provide the building blocks for plant tissues and regulate physiological processes.
* Real Example: Iron deficiency in soybeans leads to chlorosis (yellowing) of leaves, reduced leaf area, and decreased yield.

Chapter 2: Nutrient Imbalances

* Summary: Nutrient imbalances occur when plants have too little or too much of a nutrient. This can lead to reduced growth, yield losses, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
* Real Example: Nitrogen deficiency in wheat causes stunting, yellowing of leaves, and reduced grain yield.

Chapter 3: Soil Testing and Nutrient Management

* Summary: Soil testing is a valuable tool for assessing soil nutrient levels and making informed nutrient management decisions.
* Real Example: A soil test for a corn field reveals low phosphorus levels. The farmer applies phosphorus fertilizer to the soil to correct the deficiency.

Chapter 4: Organic Matter and Nutrient Cycling

* Summary: Organic matter contains nutrients that are essential for plant growth. Decomposing organic matter helps release these nutrients into the soil.
* Real Example: A farmer incorporates cover crops into his soil before planting soybeans. The cover crops decompose, adding organic matter and improving nutrient availability.

Chapter 5: Nutrient Interactions

* Summary: Nutrients interact with each other, and these interactions can affect plant growth. For example, nitrogen availability can be influenced by the presence of phosphorus and sulfur.
* Real Example: Phosphorus deficiency in tomatoes reduces the uptake of nitrogen, leading to reduced fruit yield.

Chapter 6: Nutrient Management in Different Environments

* Summary: Nutrient management practices should be tailored to specific environmental conditions, such as soil type, climate, and crop rotation.
* Real Example: In areas with high rainfall, nitrogen fertilizer is applied in split applications to reduce leaching losses.

Chapter 7: Troubleshooting Nutrient Deficiencies

* Summary: Nutrient deficiencies can be identified by observing plant symptoms and conducting soil testing. Specific management practices can be implemented to correct deficiencies.
* Real Example: Zinc deficiency in citrus trees causes stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Foliar sprays of zinc sulfate can be used to correct the deficiency.

Chapter 8: Nutrient Management for Sustainable Agriculture

* Summary: Nutrient management practices should aim to maintain soil fertility while minimizing environmental impacts, such as nutrient runoff and greenhouse gas emissions.
* Real Example: A farmer uses precision agriculture techniques to apply nutrients only where and when they are needed, reducing nutrient losses and environmental impacts.