Phosphorus deficiency made worse by

  • Acidic or very alkaline (calcareaus) soils
  • Low organic matter
  • Cold or wet conditions
  • Crops with a poorly developed root system
  • Soils with low P reserves
  • Soils with a high phosphate capacity
  • Iron rich soils

Phosphorus is important for

  • New growth is more vigorous and healthy
  • Number of flowers may increase
  • Fruit maturity may be advanced