Suspect a Nutrient Deficiency? Start Here!
2026-09-17
Start with soil testing
Identification of nutrient deficiencies, whether in the soil or in the crop, is the first step to determining a crop nutrition plan that best suits your operation. Soil testing before planting can help you understand the current nutrients in your soil, but what do you do when the crops have already sprouted and you’re seeing signs of possible deficiency?
Determining what may be causing your crops to yellow, spot or wither can help you take appropriate action.
Recognize possible deficiency symptoms
Nutrient deficiencies can look different across crops, depending on the nutrient that is lacking. Yellowing leaves, stunted growth and unusual leaf or stem development can be signs of a nutrient problem. However, these symptoms alone do not confirm a deficiency.
Confirm the cause before taking action
Many nutrient deficiencies can appear similar, so tissue testing, interpreted alongside soil tests and field conditions, can help determine what your crop needs.
Supplying extra nitrogen when the underlying issue is sulfur deficiency may not address the problem. Work with a 1909 agronomist to confirm the cause and determine an appropriate response.
Plan for your crop’s nutrient needs
You can help prevent deficiencies by giving your crops the nutrients they need to thrive. A fertility plan based on soil testing and crop requirements can help identify where additional nutrients may be beneficial.
Talk to your 1909 representative about whether a Micro-Phos product is suitable for your crop nutrition plan.
Related reading
Continue exploring crop nutrition with these articles:
- The Nutrients Needed to Maximize Yields – Micro-Phos
Learn about the roles of essential nutrients in crop growth and development. - Three Benefits of Using Micro-Phos
Explore the product’s features and its role in crop nutrition. - Choosing the Right Fertilizers for Successful Canola Cultivation
Review nutrient requirements and fertilizer planning considerations for canola.