Phosphorus--Too Much and Plants May Suffer

Type
Publication
Date of Publication
December 7, 2021
Price
See Agrilife Learn

Overview

The buildup of phosphorus in lawns, gardens, pastures, and croplands can cause plants to grow poorly and even die. Excessive soil phosphorus reduces the plant's ability to take up required micronutrients, particularly iron and zinc, even when soil tests show there are adequate amounts of those nutrients in the soil. Phosphorus buildup is caused by excessive use of inorganic fertilizer or the use of composts and manures high in phosphorus. High soil phosphorus levels also can threaten streams, rivers, lakes, and oceans. This fact sheet discusses how to identify excessive phosphorus buildup and how to correct it. (2 pages)

Looking for solutions in your county? Contact your local extension experts

More choices in Crops & Produce

  • Publication

    Gardening in Texas has unique challenges, but that doesn’t mean you can’t grow vegetables here. You just need to know what kind, when, and where.

  • Publication

    Set of five children’s books featured in the Learn, Grow, Eat & Go! curriculum.

  • Publication

    This handbook provides advice for all aspects of basic peach production.

  • Publication

    Created by teachers, this multifaceted garden, nutrition, and physical activities curriculum is evidence-based and academically rich.

  • Publication

    This 4-week curriculum equips early childhood teachers with daily engaging lessons, group activities, and journal prompts to enrich your classroom while making learning fun!

  • Course

    This course teaches the basics of growing tomatoes in your garden, and allows you to cover the material at your own pace and on your own time schedule so begin when you’re ready. This course was first developed for Texas gardeners. However, most information is suitable for other regions.