Plant Macronutrient Roles and Functions
Nitrogen Integral component of protein chemistry, amino acid formation and DNA replication Important component of chlorophyll. A constituent of enzymes, phytohormones and secondary metabolites
Potassium Required for opening and closing of stomates and CO2 fixation An activator or cofactor of many enzymes including enzymes involved in protein synthesis Associated with carbohydrate chemistry and electrolyte sugar movement Regulates osmotic and ionic balance
Phosphorus A vital component of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) involved in energy capture, storage and transfer Structural component of nucleic acids DNA and RNA Required for phytate production in seeds
Calcium A major structural component of cell walls Activates a number of enzymes for cell division and elongation Enhances pollen germination and growth Plays a role in cellular osmotic regulation
Magnesium Central atom of the chlorophyll molecule Activates several enzyme systems involved in energy transfer reactions Bridging element for protein synthesis Sugar movement out of leaves
Sulphur Important component of amino acids cystine, cysteine and methionine Involved in cell energetic processes Synthesis of several coenzymes and vitamins Component of some compounds associated with aroma and taste