Which symptom indicates nitrogen deficiency in cotton plants?

The symptom indicating nitrogen deficiency in cotton plants is characterized by yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Nitrogen is a crucial nutrient for plants, as it plays a fundamental role in the formation of amino acids, proteins, and chlorophyll. When cotton plants lack sufficient nitrogen, they are unable to produce enough chlorophyll, leading to a noticeable yellowing of the older leaves, starting from the tips and moving inward. This condition is often referred to as chlorosis.

Stunted growth occurs as a direct consequence of nitrogen deficiency since nitrogen is vital for overall growth and development, including the formation of new tissues. The lack of nitrogen impairs the plant’s ability to expand and develop properly, resulting in reduced height and leaf size.

In contrast, the other symptoms—such as brown spots on leaves, wilting of plant structures, and excessive leaf drop—are associated with different types of stress or nutrient deficiencies. For example, brown spots may indicate issues such as fungal infections or other nutrient imbalances, wilting typically suggests water stress or root issues, and excessive leaf drop is often associated with environmental stressors or disease. Thus, the presence of yellowing of leaves coupled with stunted growth serves as a clear indicator of nitrogen deficiency in cotton plants