Ch. 37 - Plant Nutrition

These flashcards cover key concepts related to soil and plant nutrition from the lecture notes, focusing on terminology and definitions.

Carnivory

The practice of obtaining nutrients by killing and digesting prey, observed in some plants like pitcher plants.

Soil Horizon

The distinct layers in soil, including topsoil, subsoil, and parent material.

Topsoil

The upper layer of soil, rich in organic material, living organisms, and nutrients necessary for plants.

Cation Exchange

The process by which cations are displaced from soil particles by other cations, making them available for plant roots.

Humus

The organic component of topsoil, formed from decomposed plant and animal material, that retains moisture and nutrients.

Soil Solution

The solution containing water and dissolved minerals found in the pores between soil particles.

Sustainable Agriculture

Farming methods that are environmentally safe, conservation-minded, and economically viable.

Nutrient Leaching

The loss of soluble nutrients from the soil due to water movement, which can affect soil fertility.

Mycorrhizae

Mutualistic associations between fungi and plant roots that enhance nutrient uptake for the plant and provide sugars for the fungus.

Rhizosphere

The region of soil surrounding plant roots, rich in microbial activity and organic substances secreted by roots.

Nitrogen Fixation

The conversion of atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3) by certain bacteria, making it usable for plants.

Erosion

The process through which soil and its nutrients are removed from the land by water or wind.

Macronutrients

Nutrients required by plants in large amounts, including carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Micronutrients

Essential elements needed by plants in very small amounts, including iron, boron, zinc, and copper.

Phytoremediation

The use of plants to remove, degrade, or contain contaminants in soil and water.

Epiphyte

A plant that grows on another plant, obtaining moisture and nutrients from rain without harming the host.