If you are like most people, you probably think that a little fertilizer, sunlight and water are all that are needed for plants to grow. Although plants cannot grow without sunlight and water, these are the bare minimum. For optimum growth, a combination of growth factors must be considered and adjusted to meet the need of the particular plant or crop grown..
Function
Plant genetics play an important role in growth and production of crops. Hybrid varieties or genetic engineering change the potential of plants and improve growth. Genetic makeup controls characteristics like resistance to disease, drought hardiness, cold tolerance, size, flavor and productivity.
Features
Environmental Factors like temperature, water and sunlight also affect the rate of growth and the development of plants. Most plant growth occurs within the range of 60 to 100 degrees F. Temperature affects rate of photosynthesis (the process plants use to create food from sunlight) respiration and transpiration (the amount of moisture lost to the air). Generally, the rate of photosynthesis increases as the temperature increases; however, some cold season crops do not follow this rule.
Identification
Temperature of the soil affects the growth of beneficial bacteria, allowing them to flourish in warm soil. The bacteria breakdown organic matter and release nitrogen into the soil in usable form for plant growth. The amount of available moisture in the soil determines the rate of nutrient and water uptake. Soil that lacks adequate moisture prevents nutrient uptake and stunts growth. Moisture preferences differ among plant types. Proper soil aeration provides a balance of air and water. Water logged or saturated soil increases the oxygen in the soil and hinders growth in most plants. Well-drained aerated soils allow roots to grow and eliminate the build up of excess oxygen. Proper ph, how alkaline or acid the soil is, determines the availability of nutrients in the soil. The recommended ph varies, depending on the crop.
Size
The intensity and duration of light affects plant growth. The need varies among plant types. Without adequate light intensity or the proper number of hours of light, plant growth suffers or ceases. Plants or crops requiring long hours of sunlight suffer when grown in northern climates where sunlight is limited to shorter periods.
Considerations
In greenhouse environments, the gases in the air affect plant growth. The level of CO2 in the air must be monitored and adjusted. Plants use CO2 during photosynthesis to create energy and build plant material. When the CO2 level in the environment drops, plant growth suffers. CO2 is returned to the air by plant respiration and decomposition of manure or plant materials. Increased levels of CO2 produces increased plant growth and crop yield. Pollutants in the air may slow plant growth.
Benefits
Fertilizer and trace elements necessary for plant growth determine the amount of nutrients available for plant growth. Providing the proper combination of necessary ingredients promotes plant growth.
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