Phosphorus and sugar beet yield
Phosphorus is a component of nucleic acids and lipids and is important in the production and transport of sugars, fat and protein during sugar beet production.
Phosphorus is especially important during early root development. A good supply of phosphorus ensures rapid root growth and good uptake of other nutrients.
Phosphorus is very immobile in the soil and is only taken up within 1-2 mm from the root. Placement of phosphorus will often give a higher uptake efficiency and result in a higher availability of phosphorus. Phosphorus availability is especially affected by cold soils where the mineralization of phosphorus is low.
Phosphorus deficiency inhibits growth of the sugar beet plants giving them a stunted, stiff appearance.
The colour of the leaves ranges from dark green to dull blue-green.
Furthermore, anthocyanin may be visible which gives a red/violet colour to the leaf veins and margins.
