Iron deficiency: what it is, how it occurs, and how to solve it

Unlike other nutrients, iron deficiency first manifests in young leaves, as the plant cannot mobilize it from older tissues. This helps distinguish it from deficiencies such as nitrogen or magnesium.

Typical symptoms:
• Chlorosis (yellowing) in young leaves, with visible green veins.
• Growth of new shoots is halted.
• Reduction in leaf size.
• In severe cases, leaves turn almost white with necrosis at the edges.
• Decreased flowering and fruit set.

Iron deficiency develops rapidly in calcareous or poorly drained soils, first affecting the newer areas of the plant and later compromising the entire foliage if not corrected.

Developmental stages:
• Early: Young leaves become lighter, retaining green veins.
• Intermediate stage: More intense yellowing, chlorosis spreading to the entire leaf.
• Advanced: Leaves with almost white tones, very limited growth.
• End: appearance of necrosis, leaf drop, and severe loss of yield.