Which nutrient is typically referred to as a limiting nutrient in plant growth?

Nitrogen is often referred to as a limiting nutrient in plant growth because it is essential for the synthesis of amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids, all of which are crucial for plant development. While many nutrients are required for healthy plant growth, nitrogen is often present in limited quantities in the soil, especially in some ecosystems where organic matter is low or where heavy rainfall may leach nitrogen away. This limited availability can restrict plant growth since, without sufficient nitrogen, plants cannot carry out vital processes such as photosynthesis and growth regulation effectively.

When nitrogen is deficient, plants exhibit stunted growth, yellowing of leaves (known as chlorosis), and reduced yields. Because plants cannot selectively absorb nutrients from the soil, a deficiency in nitrogen can significantly impact their overall health and productivity, making nitrogen a prime example of a limiting nutrient in agriculture and horticulture.