Plant nutrients and nutrient cycles

Plants require nutrients or elements obtained from the soil for good growth and healthy development.  These elements or nutrients are classified into two main groups which are:

Macro-Nutrients

Macro-nutrients are mineral elements or nutrients required by crops in large quantities.  Examples of macro-nutrients are nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium and sulphur.

Micro Nutrients or Trace Elements

Micro nutrients are mineral elements or nutrients required by crops in small quantities.  Examples of micro-nutrients are zinc, copper, boron, molybdenum, iron, chlorine and manganese.