What Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Do for Plants

Nitrogen drives plant growth — leafy, vegetative development. It's in every protein, essential for all processes from new leaves to pest defense. Part of chlorophyll (green color, photosynthesis). Deficiency shows as general yellowing (chlorosis), often on older growth first since nitrogen moves within the plant.

Phosphorus handles energy transfer in metabolic processes. Critical for root development and flowering. Moves slowly in soil, so work it into the root zone.

Potassium regulates plant metabolism and water pressure in/out of cells. Vital for root development and stress tolerance (drought, cold, disease).