Limiting factors for plant growth are conditions or resources that constrain the growth and development of plants. These factors can be environmental, biological, or nutritional. Key limiting factors include:
- Light intensity: Plants need light for photosynthesis, so low light limits growth.
- Water supply: Water is essential for photosynthesis and nutrient transport, and both drought and waterlogging can harm plants.
- Temperature: Too low or too high temperatures can reduce enzyme activity and slow growth.
- Carbon dioxide concentration: CO2 is required for photosynthesis; low levels can limit photosynthesis rates.
- Nutrients: Essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and trace minerals may limit growth if deficient or unavailable.
- Soil pH: Affects nutrient availability to plants.
- Biological factors: Pests, diseases, and weed competition can limit growth.
- Genetic factors: Inherent genetic potential of the plant variety.
These limiting factors follow Liebig's Law of the Minimum, meaning growth is restricted by the scarcest resource relative to the plant's needs.
