What is one sign of nutrient deficiency in plants?

One of the most noticeable signs of nutrient deficiency in plants is yellowing leaves, a condition known as chlorosis. This typically occurs when a plant lacks essential nutrients, particularly nitrogen, which is vital for chlorophyll production. Chlorophyll is the pigment responsible for the green color in leaves, and insufficient levels of nitrogen can cause younger leaves to become yellow while the older leaves may remain green longer. This yellowing is an indicator that the plant is struggling to synthesize food effectively through photosynthesis due to inadequate nutrient supply.

In contrast, wilting petals may suggest issues such as inadequate water or environmental stress rather than a specific nutrient deficiency. Brown tips on leaves can indicate nutrient excesses, dehydration, or improper watering, and stunted growth may arise from various factors, including pests or diseases, rather than solely from a deficiency. Each of these symptoms can reflect different plant health issues, but yellowing leaves specifically correlate with nutrient deficiency, particularly nitrogen.