The importance of plant nutrients and the role of fertilization in forest nurseries

Abstract

The main purpose of production in nurseries is to obtain quality seedlings. In accordance with this purpose, one of the important maintenance operations applied in nurseries is fertilization. Fertilization is an effective method used to prevent plant growth disorders. This application is performed in cases where the existing plant nutrients cannot be taken because of the causes such as high pH, aeration, water stress or plant nutrients are deficiency. This study focuses on the functions of plant nutrients and the role of fertilization in forest nurseries. In order to obtain quality seedlings, the growing medium should contain sufficient and balanced plant nutrients. Correct and timely fertilization is the utmost importance for plant nutrition. Studies investigating the effects of fertilization on seedlings of forest trees tested mostly nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. In this sense, identifying the effects of other plant nutrients on seedling growth would be beneficial for seedling production activities.