In alkaline soils, which mineral deficiency is likely to occur?

In alkaline soils, iron deficiency is particularly common due to the increased soil pH, which affects the solubility of various nutrients. In such conditions, iron becomes less available for plant uptake, leading to symptoms such as chlorosis, where leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green. This is primarily because, in alkaline environments, iron can precipitate and become unavailable to plants, especially to those that have a high iron demand.

Calcium generally becomes more available in alkaline soils, not less, as its solubility increases with higher pH. Magnesium may also be present in sufficient quantities, and while nitrogen is crucial for plant growth, its availability is less directly tied to soil pH compared to iron. The interplay of soil chemistry and nutrient availability is central to understanding why iron deficiency stands out in alkaline conditions.