Molybdenum deficiency

Constraint – Molybdenum 

Plant use

• Molybdenum is the least available micronutrient

• Molybdenum forms an essential element in nitrogen fixing enzymes, as well as being directly involved in nitrogen metabolism and the electron transfer system

Symptoms 

• Chlorosis of older leaves

• Stunted growth

• Green/grey/white nodules on legumes

• In severe cases, most if not all plant growth is affected

Damage

• Yield penalty is generally not significant

Management

A soil test or a plant tissue test should be used to confirm molybdenum deficiency. Maintenance of soil pH above 5.5 will act to increase the available molybdenum in the soil, as well as application of 50-60 g Mo/ha every 5-7 years on responsive soils.

Links and Resources

DEPI VIC - What nutrients do plants require? Molybdenum 6.4.1. Plant use, symptoms, management and control, and animal health implications. Page last updated 2013.

DPI NSW - AGfact  Plant use, symptoms, deficient areas and soils, diagnosis of deficiency, and control measures. POublished 1984, reviewed 2004.