Plants Egypt

How Low Temperatures Affect Nutrient Uptake in Plants

With the onset of winter and the drop in temperatures, many farmers notice slower plant growth and weaker responses to fertilization, despite following regular nutrition programs. This is mainly due to the direct effect of cold weather on nutrient uptake from the soil or through foliar application.

In this article, we explain how low temperatures affect nutrient absorption and outline the best practices to reduce this impact and maintain plant health during winter.

First: How does cold weather affect nutrient uptake?

1️⃣ Reduced root activity

At low temperatures, the biological activity of roots decreases.
Roots become less efficient at absorbing water and dissolved nutrients.
This negatively affects vegetative growth and the formation of new roots.

(Migma Rooter) – A strong root network for high productivity

Potassium (K₂O): 10%
Free amino acids: 5%
Nitrogen: 2.5%
Carbon and organic matter: 76%

2️⃣ Slower physiological processes within the plant

Cold conditions slow down physiological activities.
Nutrient movement inside the plant decreases.
Even when fertilizers are available, the plant cannot utilize them efficiently.

Second: Nutrients most affected by low temperatures

🔹 Phosphorus

One of the most temperature-sensitive nutrients.
Deficiency appears as weak root growth and leaf discoloration.
Although present in the soil, its uptake significantly decreases in winter.

🔹 Nitrogen

Uptake decreases due to reduced root activity.
Excess nitrogen during winter may lead to weak and fragile growth.

🔹 Micronutrients

Such as iron, zinc, and manganese.
Deficiency symptoms become more evident in cold conditions.
Especially in alkaline soils.

(Bastion)

Iron (Fe) chelated with EDDHA: 6%

(Migma Combi Alpha)

Boron (B): 2%
Chelated Iron (Fe): 3%
Molybdenum (Mo): 0.22%
Zinc (Zn): 3%
Amide Nitrogen: 2.5%
Manganese (Mn): 3%
Copper (Cu) chelated with EDTA: 3%

Third: Why do nutrient deficiency symptoms appear despite fertilization?

Reduced uptake efficiency rather than fertilizer deficiency
Fixation of some nutrients in the soil due to cold temperatures
Improper timing or method of application
Weak roots unable to utilize available nutrients

📌 Therefore, the solution is not always increasing the dosage, but rather improving the timing and method of fertilization.

Fourth: Best fertilization practices in cold weather

✅ 1. Focus on strengthening roots

Strong roots are essential for cold tolerance and improved nutrient uptake.

✅ 2. Reduce rates and increase efficiency

Use moderate fertilizer rates.
Avoid excessive application, especially nitrogen.

✅ 3. Pay special attention to micronutrients

Use highly stable chelated forms.
Foliar application is more effective during winter.

✅ 4. Choose the right timing

Apply sprays during mild temperature periods.
Avoid spraying during frost or extreme cold.

Fifth: How can we maintain plant balance during winter?

Provide balanced rather than intensive nutrition
Support plants with nutrients that enhance stress tolerance
Monitor plant condition regularly instead of relying on a fixed program

Nutrition