What are plant nutrients?

Plant nutrients are essential elements that support the growth and development of plants. They play a critical role in various physiological processes such as photosynthesis, energy transfer, and nutrient absorption. Every plant has specific nutritional needs, and these elements help ensure proper growth, flowering, and fruiting.

Understanding that plant nutrients refer to the elements required for plant growth emphasizes their importance in agriculture and gardening. These nutrients can be macro-nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are needed in larger quantities, or micro-nutrients like copper, zinc, and iron, which are needed in smaller amounts.

The other options provided do not accurately describe plant nutrients. Factors that inhibit plant growth are considered stressors or environmental conditions that negatively impact plants, while chemical fertilizers are just one way to supply these nutrients; they do not encompass all plant nutrients which can also come from organic matter and other natural sources. Water, while vital for plant health, is a separate factor that aids in nutrient mobility and uptake but is not classified as a nutrient itself.