The Phosphorus Cycle
Phosphorus is one of the three macronutrients critical to plant growth. It plays a vital role in various plant processes including energy storage and transfer, photosynthesis, and crop maturity. When crops cannot access an adequate supply of phosphorus, crop development and maturity are delayed. But what factors impact the availability of this vital nutrient in our soil? The interactive diagram below demonstrates the factors that affect phosphorus throughout crop production including inputs to the soil, losses from the soil, and components in the soil.
A better understanding of the phosphorus cycle will help you uncover how exactly it impacts crop productivity, plant growth, soil health, and nutrient efficiency throughout production. The phosphorus cycle helps you understand the need for fertilization, how you can increase uptake and efficiency, and how you can optimize your fertilizer program.
Inputs
Phosphorus is supplied to soils through various avenues including atmospheric deposition, mineral fertilizer application, plant residue, and animal manure/biosolids. Click on each of the MORE buttons on the infographic below to learn more about common phosphorus inputs and the role they play in supplying phosphorus to the soil.
Losses
Phosphorus can also be lost through various avenues including runoff/erosion, crop harvest, and leaching. Click on each of the MORE buttons below to learn more about how phosphorus is removed from soil.
Components
Phosphorus is also found in various components in the environment. Organic phosphorus, soluble phosphorus, primary minerals, mineral surfaces, and secondary compounds can all enhance phosphorus availability in the soil. Click on each of the MORE buttons below to learn more about the phosphorus cycle and how this critical macronutrient is affected by a range of factors in the soil.
To learn more about the importance of phosphorus nutrition, explore the following resources:
