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Many times plant analysis provides useful information in diagnosing nutrient deficiencies in the plant. However, research information is limited in providing necessary references that have been correlated with field response. Plant analysis can vary greatly with tire stage of growth at sampling time, as well as the plant part sampled. It is, therefore, necessary to sample the tissue at the indicated plant maturity listed in the tables below in order for interpretation tone effective. In addition to a tissue analysis, a soil test will many times confirm the nutrient deficiency and provide useful information in diagnosing problem areas.
Some general principles should be observed when plant sampling. Do not sample diseased or mechanically damaged tissue. Do not sample tissue that has been sprayed. Your~g leaves' old- leaves and seeds are not usually representative of the nutrient status of she whole plant Tissue should be placed in a clean paper bag or envelope and mailed to the laboratory. E)o not seal tissue in a plastic bag since decomposition is hastened without air. When no samplir!g instructions are given a good rule of thumb is to sample the upper most recently matured tissue.
Tables giving some tissue analyses to use as a guide to interpret the nutrient status of several field and fruit crops are on the following two pages. These values are compiled from data reported from other areas and our own laboratory results.
If the analyses is in the low range, you could expect a growth response to the addition of that element. If the analyses is in the high range, you would normally not expect a growth response by applying additional amounts of the element. Reading in the intermediate range are results from crops with normal growth and yields. These values will be revised as more data becomes available.
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