How to Identify Nitrogen Deficiency in Plants

Your garden is showing signs of some sort of problem, but you're not sure what. It could be nitrogen deficiency, especially if the leaves are changing colors and the plants appear weak. Here's how to identify nitrogen deficiency in garden plants so you can nurse your garden plants back to health.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Know the most common plants affected by nitrogen deficiency. These plants include fruit trees, vegetable plants and broad-leafed evergreens, although any plant can become nitrogen deficient.

2. Keep an eye on plant growth because nitrogen deficiency slows plant growth. If your plants seem to be growing slower than expected, consider treatment for nitrogen deficiency.

3. Check the color of the leaves. The older leaves, which are generally at the bottom of the plant, will first turn yellowish-green and then possibly yellow, red or purple. The newer growth, generally near the top, will show signs of being deficient in nitrogen by turning slightly yellowish-green as well.

4. Look for spindly stems and weak plants. The stems may also yellow depending on the type of plant. This generally happens in certain vegetable plants. Woody plants, such as fruit trees and evergreens, will not show this sign.

5. Watch for decrease in yield. With the plant's stunted growth, you'll find that the yield from your crops is also decreased. This could cause a decrease in profits, especially if you sell your goods at a farmers market. Keep an eye out for nitrogen deficiency and you could increase your yield.