What happens to leaves with magnesium deficiency?

Magnesium deficiency in plants primarily affects the older leaves because magnesium is a mobile nutrient, meaning it can be relocated within the plant from older tissues to newer growth. As a result, the lower leaves tend to exhibit a specific symptom known as interveinal chlorosis, where the tissue between the veins turns yellow while the veins themselves remain green. This happens because magnesium is being redirected to newer leaves, leading to a deficiency in the older ones.

The other symptoms, such as stunted new leaves, yellow spots, or darkening of old leaves, are typically due to other nutrient deficiencies or issues in the plant. The distinctive pattern of yellowing in the lower leaves with green veins is a clear indicator of magnesium deficiency. Understanding this characteristic symptom can assist in diagnosing nutrient-related issues in plants, allowing for appropriate management actions to be taken.