Plants do not absorb sugars, proteins or fats from the soil but they do absorb water and some essential minerals. These tend to be elements and trace elements. These can be added artificially to the soil in which large numbers of plants are grown by adding fertilizer.
The three most important nutrients that plants need for growth are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. These are commonly known by their chemical symbols – N, P and K.
Nitrogen is required for new, green plant growth and is required in large amounts by plants that are mainly leaves – such as the grass in a lawn. Phosphorus helps the plant grow roots and it increases the number of flowers that can grow in flowering plants. It is particularly necessary for bulbs and newly planted trees. Potassium is good for the overall health of the plant and it helps the plant defend itself from disease.
The three most important nutrients that plants need for growth are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. These are commonly known by their chemical symbols – N, P and K.
Nitrogen is required for new, green plant growth and is required in large amounts by plants that are mainly leaves – such as the grass in a lawn. Phosphorus helps the plant grow roots and it increases the number of flowers that can grow in flowering plants. It is particularly necessary for bulbs and newly planted trees. Potassium is good for the overall health of the plant and it helps the plant defend itself from disease.