Phosphorus deficiency symptoms are often more noticeable in what soil condition?

• A. Alkaline soils
• B. Acidic soils
• C. Neutral soils
• D. Waterlogged soils

Answer: (B)

Phosphorus availability in soil is highly influenced by pH. In acidic soils, phosphorus readily binds with iron and aluminum oxides to form insoluble compounds, meaning plants can’t take up the nutrient even if it’s present. This makes deficiency symptoms—like stunted growth, poor root development, and sometimes leaf purpling—more noticeable. While phosphorus can also be less available in very alkaline soils, the most common and evident deficiencies occur in acidic conditions due to this strong fixation.