Which nutrient is considered a key nutrient for plant growth?

Nitrogen is considered a key nutrient for plant growth because it is an essential component of amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids, which are critical for the structure and functioning of all living cells. It plays a vital role in photosynthesis and is a significant part of chlorophyll, the molecule that plants use to capture sunlight for energy. Additionally, nitrogen promotes healthy vegetative growth, resulting in improved crop yields.

Although phosphorus, potassium, and calcium are also important nutrients, each serves different functions in plant health. Phosphorus is crucial for energy transfer and genetic material, potassium is essential for water regulation and enzyme activation, and calcium contributes to cell wall structure and stability. However, without adequate nitrogen, plants would struggle to synthesize proteins and grow effectively, demonstrating its primary role as a key nutrient in nutrition and growth.