Potassium is one of three major nutrients needed by all plants
to grow and carry out basic metabolic functions. When you send a
soil sample for testing, the test results will include
information on the amount of potassium found, and a
fertilization program to increase available potassium, if
needed. According to the University of Minnesota Extension,
botanists don't completely understand the role of potassium in
plant health. However, they know that plants need potassium for
several important life functions, especially the movement of
water, nutrients and carbohydrate molecules inside of the plant.
Additionally, potassium promotes early, healthy growth, helps
plants to form proteins, protects from water loss and provides
resistance against pests and diseases. Plants without adequate
potassium in the soil show stunted growth and development. The
leaves lose their green coloration, becoming yellowish, or
striped and spotted, in some species. Eventually, the leaves
turn brown and die. Symptoms begin in the lower