Opinion - International Research Journal of Plant Science ( 2025) Volume 16, Issue 1
, Manuscript No. IRJPS-25-177108; , Pre QC No. IRJPS-25-177108; , QC No. IRJPS-25-177108; , Manuscript No. IRJPS-25-177108; Published: 26-Mar-2025
Plant nutrition is a fundamental aspect of plant growth and development, influencing productivity, stress tolerance, and overall ecosystem function. Plants require a balanced supply of essential macro- and micronutrients to support physiological processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, enzyme activation, and cell division. Nutrient uptake involves complex interactions between root systems, soil properties, and microbial communities that enhance nutrient availability. Modern research reveals that plants employ sophisticated molecular transporters, signaling pathways, and regulatory networks to maintain internal nutrient homeostasis. Deficiencies or toxicities in nutrients rapidly affect plant metabolism and compromise crop quality. Additionally, sustainable nutrient management is becoming increasingly important as agricultural systems face challenges posed by climate change and soil degradation. Understanding the mechanisms of nutrient acquisition, assimilation, and transport provides new opportunities to improve fertilizer efficiency and develop nutrient-efficient crop varieties. This article reviews key elements of plant nutrition and highlights recent advances in nutrient uptake and regulation.
Plant nutrition is a fundamental aspect of plant growth and development, influencing productivity, stress tolerance, and overall ecosystem function. Plants require a balanced supply of essential macro- and micronutrients to support physiological processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, enzyme activation, and cell division. Nutrient uptake involves complex interactions between root systems, soil properties, and microbial communities that enhance nutrient availability. Modern research reveals that plants employ sophisticated molecular transporters, signaling pathways, and regulatory networks to maintain internal nutrient homeostasis. Deficiencies or toxicities in nutrients rapidly affect plant metabolism and compromise crop quality. Additionally, sustainable nutrient management is becoming increasingly important as agricultural systems face challenges posed by climate change and soil degradation. Understanding the mechanisms of nutrient acquisition, assimilation, and transport provides new opportunities to improve fertilizer efficiency and develop nutrient-efficient crop varieties. This article reviews key elements of plant nutrition and highlights recent advances in nutrient uptake and regulation.
Plant Nutrition, Macro-Nutrients, Micro-Nutrients, Nutrient Uptake, Soil Fertility, Root Physiology, Nutrient Transporters, Ion Homeostasis, Nitrogen Assimilation, Phosphorus Metabolism, Potassium Transport, Micronutrient Deficiency, Sustainable Agriculture, Nutrient Signalling.
Plant nutrition plays a vital role in determining plant health, growth rate, productivity, and resistance to environmental stresses. Plants depend on a wide range of essential elements obtained primarily from the soil and atmosphere. These nutrients are required in specific quantities and ratios, making their availability crucial for metabolic balance. Without adequate nutrient supply, key physiological processes become impaired, ultimately affecting plant development and yield (Acharya et al., 2024). Macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are required in relatively large amounts, serving key structural and metabolic roles (Lugtenberg & Kamilova, 2009). Nitrogen supports protein and chlorophyll synthesis, phosphorus is vital for energy transfer and nucleic acid formation, and potassium regulates enzyme activity and osmoregulation. Secondary nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, are equally important, contributing to cell wall formation, chlorophyll production, and amino acid synthesis. Micronutrients, although needed in smaller amounts, are essential for enzyme activation, redox reactions, and hormone metabolism. Elements like iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and boron have specific biochemical functions that cannot be replaced by other nutrients. Even slight deficiencies can disrupt growth and lead to visible symptoms such as chlorosis, stunted growth, or poor reproductive development (Hilty et al., 2021). Nutrient uptake is governed by complex interactions between plant roots, soil characteristics, and microbial partners. Roots employ specialized transport proteins, membrane channels, and proton pumps to absorb nutrients efficiently. Mycorrhizal fungi and beneficial rhizobacteria further enhance nutrient availability by increasing root surface area and transforming nutrients into absorbable forms. These biological relationships are central to nutrient acquisition and soil health (Prusinkiewicz, 2004). Plants also possess intricate signaling networks to regulate nutrient homeostasis. Hormones such as auxins, cytokinins, and ethylene influence root architecture, enabling plants to explore nutrient-rich soil zones. Molecular sensors detect internal nutrient levels and adjust transporter activity accordingly. Crosstalk among signaling pathways ensures that plants respond adaptively to fluctuations in soil nutrient availability. In modern agriculture, understanding plant nutrition is increasingly important for sustainable crop production. Excessive fertilizer use leads to soil degradation and environmental pollution, while nutrient deficiencies limit yield potential. Advances in genetics, soil science, and biotechnology are contributing to the development of nutrient-efficient crops and eco-friendly fertilization strategies. These innovations are essential for improving global food security while reducing environmental impacts (Leopold, 1964).
Plant nutrition is a cornerstone of plant growth and agricultural productivity, integrating soil chemistry, root physiology, and molecular regulation. A balanced supply of essential nutrients supports healthy metabolic processes and increases plant resilience to stress. As global agriculture faces new challenges, optimizing nutrient use through improved crop varieties, better soil management, and efficient fertilization practices is critical. Continued research into nutrient uptake and regulation will enable sustainable crop production and long-term ecosystem health.
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