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Protein Synthesis and Enzyme Activity: Potassium plays an important role in protein synthesis

and activation of enzymes. It regulates the metabolic processes of plants by increasing the
activity of enzymes.

Cell Division and Growth: Potassium affects cell division and growth processes in plants. It
supports the development of root, leaf, and stem tissues of plants.

Disease Resistance: Potassium increases plant resistance to disease. It helps thicken and
strengthen the walls of plant cells, thus preventing the entry of diseased organisms into the

plant.

Ripening and Fruit Formation: Potassium affects the fruit formation of plants and the ripening
of fruits. This increases crop yield and quality of plants.

Deficiency or excess of potassium in the plant is one of the important problems that adversely
affect plant health. Both can negatively affect plant development and cause yield losses. Here

are the effects of deficiency and excess potassium in the plant:

16.3.1. Potassium Deficiency

In potassium deficiency, the edges appear burnt on older leaves.

Slow Growth: Potassium deficiency negatively affects the growth rate of plants. Plants may
have smaller and weaker leaves.

Leaf Yellowing: Due to potassium deficiency, yellowing (chlorosis) can be seen on the leaves.

Yellowing leaves are first affected from the edges.

Susceptibility to Desiccation: Potassium deficiency weakens the ability of plants to regulate

water balance and can cause plants to be more susceptible to desiccation.

Yield Loss: Potassium deficiency reduces crop yield in plants. Fruit and seed formation may be

affected, thus yield may decrease.

Drying of Leaf Tips: Potassium deficiency can cause drying and burns on leaf tips.

Plants become susceptible to insects and disease.

16.3.2. Potassium Excess

Mineral Imbalance: An excess of potassium can cause mineral imbalances in plants and inhibit

the absorption of other nutrients.

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