What Does Manganese Do?
Manganese plays an essential role in photosynthesis as the nutrient aids the photolysis (light splitting) of water molecules and provides the energy needed for the process. Manganese deficiency is often confused with Magnesium and Iron deficiencies as they have very similar symptoms, however unlike Magnesium, Manganese is not part of the chlorophyll molecule.
Symptoms of Manganese Deficiency:
The main symptoms of Manganese deficiency are yellowing between the veins of the leaf (chlorosis) and discolouration and browning of leaf edges. As Manganese has relatively low mobility throughout plants, it is often only new, young leaves that are affected by a deficiency in this nutrient. Ericaceous plants are particularly susceptible to becoming deficient in Manganese when growing in alkaline soil or potting compost. A plant with a deficiency in Manganese may also be smaller than expected as the growth can be stunted.
Control:
Apply a fertiliser containing a high level of trace elements, for example NutriFlo Trace-El which contains Manganese as well as Boron, Copper, Zinc and Molybdenum.
We recommend using a fertiliser that contains trace elements. NutriFlo Trace-El is ideal for this as it contains 6 vital trace elements, including Manganese and Iron.
For more information on Manganese deficiency, please get in touch with our sales team on 01522 246491.
