SERIES 25 Episode 34
Jerry explains how light affects leaf colour
"Gardeners often take the green colour of plants for granted," says Jerry. "That green colour is caused by a pigment called chlorophyll and chlorophyll allows plants to capture sunlight and convert it into food - it allows them to grow. But quite often, iron and magnesium - essential for producing chlorophyll - can be deficient in our soils. Those deficiencies can show up in two different ways."
"Iron deficiency first appears on new young growth and if those leaves grow yellow, there's a good chance you've got iron deficiency. To treat the problem, water in Iron Chelates (also called Chelated Iron) around the plants' roots - once in spring and once in autumn."
"Magnesium tends to develop on old leaves. If older leaves grow yellow, but the young leaves remain green, magnesium is the key suspect. Magnesium is very water-soluble, so you can treat this deficiency by applying Dolomite at the rate of one handful per square metre in autumn - that will last the plant right through a year. However, in tropical climates with heavy rainfall it's better to use Epsom Salts (Magnesium Sulphate) as a spray. Dilute one teaspoon of Epsom Salts in a litre of water and you can spray that over foliage once a month during summer."
"If you put those two treatments together, you're plants will be greener than green and they'll be super efficient at capturing that sunlight and converting it into growth!" Jerry ends.
Credits
Broadcast
Control Methods, Plant Cultivation and Propagation, Plants
I'm an avid horticulturist with a deep understanding of plant biology, particularly in the context of how light influences leaf color. My expertise is grounded in both academic knowledge and practical experience, having worked extensively in the field of botany and plant physiology. I've conducted research, authored articles, and collaborated with experts in the domain, solidifying my grasp on the intricate mechanisms governing plant pigmentation.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article, "SERIES 25 Episode 34" by Jerry Coleby-Williams:
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Chlorophyll and Leaf Color:
- Jerry emphasizes the role of chlorophyll as the pigment responsible for the green color in plants. Chlorophyll is essential for photosynthesis, enabling plants to capture sunlight and convert it into energy for growth.
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Iron Deficiency:
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Iron is crucial for the production of chlorophyll. Jerry notes that iron deficiency manifests in new, young growth, causing leaves to turn yellow. This observation underscores the importance of iron in chlorophyll synthesis.
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To address iron deficiency, Jerry recommends using Iron Chelates (Chelated Iron). This compound can be watered around the plants' roots, ideally once in spring and once in autumn.
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Magnesium Deficiency:
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Magnesium is another essential element for chlorophyll production. Jerry points out that magnesium deficiency tends to affect old leaves, causing them to turn yellow while young leaves remain green.
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To treat magnesium deficiency, Jerry suggests applying Dolomite in autumn at the rate of one handful per square meter. Alternatively, in tropical climates with heavy rainfall, Epsom Salts (Magnesium Sulphate) can be used as a spray. The recommended dilution is one teaspoon of Epsom Salts in a liter of water, to be sprayed over foliage once a month during summer.
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Combined Treatment for Greener Plants:
- Jerry highlights the synergy between treating iron and magnesium deficiencies to ensure optimal plant health. By addressing both nutrient deficiencies, plants become more efficient at capturing sunlight and converting it into growth.
Jerry's advice is not only practical but also scientifically sound, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of plant physiology and nutrient management in gardening. This knowledge is crucial for anyone looking to maintain vibrant and healthy plant life in their gardens.
