Which nutrient deficiency is associated with dark-green plant coloration?

The association of dark-green plant coloration with nutrient deficiencies relates to the role of nitrogen in plant health. When plants experience nitrogen deficiency, they often exhibit pale or yellowed leaves, a condition known as chlorosis. However, its opposite can occur when there is an excess of nitrogen; plants can become dark green due to lush, vigorous growth. This vibrant color is typically a sign of an adequate nitrogen supply.

In healthy plants, nitrogen is crucial for chlorophyll production, which is essential for photosynthesis. Sufficient nitrogen levels lead to optimal chlorophyll levels, resulting in dark green leaves. Conversely, with insufficient nitrogen, chlorophyll production decreases, leading to lighter leaf coloration.

Understanding this relationship is essential for managing plant nutrition, as dark green foliage typically indicates that a plant is receiving enough nitrogen rather than suffering from a deficiency. This is why a dark-green coloration in plants is indicative of nutrient sufficiency rather than deficiency.