Phosphorus

Phosphorus is essential for plant growth and survival, and is involved in all major plant processes including photosynthesis, respiration and energy transport. Phosphorus deficient turf plants are frequently stressed and dark green or even reddish in color. If deficiencies are not corrected, the plant will eventually die. Excess phosphorus can result in contamination of surface and ground water. To prevent over-application and leaching of phosphorus, a phosphorus saturation index (PSI) is calculated (see below) to determine if maximum levels of…