Oasis Agri Prescription Blended Trace Elements Nutrients and Functions – Part 6: Molybdenum

MOLYBDENUM (Mo)

Functions in Plants and Soil:

• Nitrogen Metabolism:

Molybdenum is essential for the enzyme nitrate reductase break down nitrates absorbed from the soil into nitrite.

• Nitrogen Fixation:

In legumes, molybdenum is vital for the bacteria in root nodules to convert nitrogen gas from the air into ammonia, which the plant can use.

• Enzyme Cofactor:

Molybdenum acts as a cofactor for several other important enzymes that aid in plant metabolism, including those involved in sulfur metabolism and hormone synthesis.

• Sulphur Metabolism:

Molybdenum acts as a cofactor for the enzyme sulfite oxidase, which converts sulfite into sulfate. This process is essential for creating the sulfate that plants need to build sulfur-containing compounds like amino acids, which are critical for protein production and overall growth.

Deficiency Symptoms in Plants:

Note: Deficiency symptoms can present differently depending on the crop species

• Stunted Growth:
  • There is a general failure to develop to full size. There is often an associated reduction in flowering and fruiting.
• Yellowing Leaves:
  • General yellowing or interveinal chlorosis first occurring in the older leaves. This is due to the link between nitrogen metabolism and molybdenum.
• Leaf Edge Scorching:
  • The edges of the leaves may die back and become brown.
• Crop Specific:
  • Crucifers:
    • Molybdenum deficiency often presents a “whiptail” in broccoli and cauliflower. The midrib grows but the leaf blade is stunted.
  • Legumes:
    • Stunted and yellow appearance due to poor nitrogen fixation.
  • Citrus:
    • Large, yellow, interveinal spots appear on the leaves. These can develop brown gum deposits and, in severe cases, cause leaves to drop.