plant defences and mineral ion deficiencies

What do plants use nitrate ions for?

• as a supply for nitrogen, which is needed to make proteins for healthy growth.

What does a nitrate deficiency cause? - 2

• amount of chlorophyll in leaves reduces

• Leaves turn a pale green or yellow colour

• Reduces the plants ability to photosynthesis and grow properly.

Physical defences

Physically stops pathogens from entering.

• covered in bark

• cellulose cell wall

• waxy cuticle

Chemical defences

mint + witch hazel —> antibacterial chemicals

stringing nettles

Mechanical defences

• thorns and hairs

• drooping leaves

• mimicry