The Role of Major Nutrients in Grass Plants

Plants capture light, converting carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates, such as sugars which are required for crop growth. This process of photosynthesis and the rate at which a plant can complete this process dictates the yield and quality of crops. Nutrition plays a key role in ensuring the plant has the fuel to photosynthesise. 

Grass plants absorb water and nutrients through their root systems. Nutrients in the soil are dissolved in water and can then be absorbed by plant roots. The major nutrients required for healthy development and growth are Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg) and Sulphur (S). While these nutrients play different roles in plant and root development, the plant is dependent on their interaction and availability at optimum levels to be able to function and grow effectively