Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

At which growth stage would you expect the highest demand for soil nutrients?

1. Early vegetative

2. Mid-vegetative

3. Late vegetative

4. Flowering

The correct answer is: Mid-vegetative

During the mid-vegetative growth stage, plants are rapidly developing and expanding their leaf area and overall biomass. This stage is characterized by intense physiological activity, where the plants are establishing a strong foundation for future growth. As plants transition from early vegetative to mid-vegetative, their nutrient uptake increases significantly because they are preparing for both flowering and fruiting stages that will follow. This is the period when essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, are in high demand to support the formation of foliage, roots, and other vital plant structures. The high demand for nutrients during this stage ensures that the plants have adequate resources for photosynthesis and growth, which are crucial for their overall health and productivity. In comparison, early vegetative stages focus primarily on establishing roots and initial leaf development, while late vegetative stages may start preparing for reproductive growth, which may shift nutrient demands differently. The flowering stage also has significant nutrient requirements, but they are more focused on reproductive development rather than the vegetative growth that peaks during the mid-vegetative stage.