Which leafy change is a sign of nitrogen deficiency?

Light green overall leaves indicate nitrogen deficiency because nitrogen is a crucial nutrient for plant growth and development. It is a key component of chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for the green color in plants. When a plant lacks nitrogen, the chlorophyll production is reduced, leading to a lighter green hue in the leaves, a condition referred to as chlorosis. This lighter coloration typically affects the entire plant, creating a more uniform pale appearance rather than localized symptoms.

The other options describe different symptoms that are associated with other nutrient deficiencies or environmental stress factors. For instance, browning leaves at the tips can signal issues such as water stress or potassium deficiency, while lower leaves falling off is often related to natural aging processes or diseases. Yellowing veins with green leaves might indicate a magnesium deficiency, which affects certain parts of the leaf differently than nitrogen deficiency. Understanding these specific symptoms helps in accurately diagnosing plant health issues.