Deficiencies in potassium occur now and again in planting mediums and outdoor soil. They almost never occur in hydroponic systems. The problem with potassium deficiencies is that they can occur even when the soil is well-fertilized and rich. This is often the result of flawed fertilization.
Plants that have basic deficiencies will appear vigorous and potentially taller than other plants. Still, the tips and edges of the bottom leaves will shift to a tan or brown color, develop necrotic spots, or simply die.
As it worsens, chlorotic spots appear on the leaves. The leaves produce patches of red and yellow in between the still-green veins, and the petioles and stems turn red. Growth will slow and leaves will grow smaller in more severe cases. The largest fan leaves will exhibit necrosis on the margins, and they will eventually die. Potassium deficiencies are, thus, very mobile.
Too much potassium will make the fan leaves produce a yellowish or white color in between the veins.
Potassium’s role in the plant is vital. It is located in every part of the plant as it’s a major factor in transporting water. It’s also important for every stage and item of growth, including the most important piece of anatomy: the buds. Other things that potassium is responsible for include, water respiration, photosynthesis, the production of thick and strong stems, and resistance to disease.
Many of the problems associated with a minor deficiency in potassium merely affect the way the plant looks and not its growth or eventual yields. One easy way to avoid any trouble with a potassium deficiency is to employ the use of Marijuana Booster. It’s a fertilizer and feeding schedule combined so that you never lose track of how many nutrients you have in your plants.
If that doesn’t work, then there are a few quick fixes for dealing with a potassium deficiency. Using water-soluble bloom fertilizers that are high in potassium is a good start. Wood ashes are also a good delivery system for potassium.
Other quick fixes include:
- Liquefied kelp
- Potassium sulfate
- Potassium bicarbonate
- Potassium dihydrogen phosphate
- Potassium silicate
Greensand and granite dust can both be used as gradual deficiency healers.
