Question

Why do plants needs potassium and magnesium?

Answer 1

Magnesium and potassium both are macro-nutrients. Magnesium is a key component in the compound chlorophyll used by the plants and potassium is responsible for the movement of stomata (opening and closing).

Step by step answer: Plants require 17 essential elements for proper growth and development. These essential elements are divided into two categories, which are, macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients are required in good quantities while micronutrients are required but in small qualities.
Potassium and magnesium are two macronutrients required by plants. Magnesium is a key component in the compound chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is an essential compound for the process of photosynthesis in plants. It entraps the sunlight for the process. It also gives green color to the plant. Magnesium also plays a key role in phosphate metabolism. They act as a carrier for another macronutrient, phosphorus. Magnesium plays an important role in the process of cell division and the formation of proteins as well. The element is utilized to activate enzymes in the plant system as well.
On the other hand, potassium helps in the opening and closing of stomata which regulates the exchange of gases in leaves. They also play a key role in the movement of water, enzyme activation as well as regulation of ATP or adenosine triphosphate synthesis. It is also a known fact that potassium reduces water loss in plants. It prevents energy loss by the process of respiration. It helps in the formation of cellulose, the protein found in cell walls of plant cells.

Note: The deficiency of the magnesium and potassium will show symptoms at the lower or older leaves of the plants. Magnesium is important for chlorophyll formation; its deficiency will restrain its formation and deprive it of its function. Chlorophyll gives green color to plants, its deficiency will cause yellow coloration. Sometimes, purple or red color spots can be seen due to deficiency by both the elements. They will also lead to stunted growth of plants. The deficiency of potassium negatively impacts seed, root, and fruit development.