|
SAE: |
Plant Growth and Mineral Deficiency Experiment |
|
Description: |
|
|
-Mineral deficiency in soils greatly affects the growth of plants. Plants growing in soils with mineral deficiencies grow poorly. Observing plant growth can also indicate the mineral in which the soil is deficient. The appearance of the plants shows various symptoms of disorders based upon the mineral deficiency. The symptoms are so consistent that a person can predict the deficiency in the soil by examining the plants. -Agriscience students can conduct an experiment on mineral deficiency in the soil. Mineral deficiencies that can be observed are calcium, iron, magnesium, nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, sulfur, and microelements. After identifying the mineral deficiency, the student can then determine how to correct the condition. -Students may use a laboratory kit from Ward’s Supply, which contains all necessary items to conduct an experiment on mineral deficiency. -This experiment may be conducted at home or in the school’s lab. Written by Bobby Joslin |
|
|
Factors To Consider |
Ranking: |
|
Time required |
2 |
|
Investment |
2 |
|
Equipment needed |
3 |
|
Skills required |
3 |
|
Facilities required |
3 |
|
Land required |
1 |
|
Labor Intensity |
2 |
|
Potential for income |
1 |
|
Transportation required |
1 |
|
Expansion possibilities |
4 |
|
Expertise needed |
3 |
|
Advertising needed |
1 |
|
Susceptible to disease |
3 |
|
Susceptible to insects |
3 |
|
Suitable for residential areas |
10 |
|
|
Other (specify) |
|
Length of production cycle |
30 days |
|
Regional |
No |
|
When to start project |
Any time, Fall or Spring are best |
|
Notes: |
|
Ask the agricultural education instructor about getting the laboratory kit. |
|
Sources of Additional Information: |
|
-Cooperative Extension Service -State Department of Agriculture -Internet |