What does a nutrient deficiency in soil lead to?

A nutrient deficiency in soil leads to reduced crop yields and growth issues because plants require essential nutrients to perform vital functions such as photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and overall development. Without adequate nutrients, plants may exhibit stunted growth, yellowing leaves, poor flowering, and lower resilience to pests and diseases. This lack of nutrients directly affects their ability to thrive and produce effectively, ultimately reducing the yield of crops grown in that nutrient-deficient soil. The other choices present outcomes that are typically associated with optimal nutrient levels or improved soil conditions, rather than the consequences of deficiency.