Plant nutrients are commonly split into two categories:

  • Major elements (macronutrients) that are required in relatively large quantities by plants, and
  • Trace elements (micronutrients) that are essential for plant growth, but are only required in small amounts.

All elements must be available in a form that is useable by the plant, and in balanced concentrations that allow optimum plant growth.

Download this great summary of what the plant nutrients do, and how they need to be applied for the plant to make best use of your investment in fertilisers.