What three elements do plants obtain from soil to grow well?
1. Nitrogen: Nitrogen is a vital nutrient for plant growth, as it is a key component of chlorophyll (required for photosynthesis), proteins, and enzymes. Plants obtain nitrogen from the soil primarily in the form of nitrate (NO3-) or ammonium (NH4+).
2. Phosphorus: Phosphorus is essential for energy transfer within the plant, as well as for the formation of DNA, RNA, and ATP. Plants obtain phosphorus from the soil in the form of phosphate ions (PO4^3-).
3. Potassium: Potassium is important for regulating water uptake and retention, as well as for enzyme activation within the plant. Plants obtain potassium from the soil in the form of potassium ions (K+).