Which micronutrient is essential for plant growth?

Manganese is indeed an essential micronutrient for plant growth. It plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and nitrogen assimilation. Manganese is involved in the enzyme system that activates essential metabolic reactions, particularly those related to the utilization of carbohydrates and the synthesis of chlorophyll. A deficiency in manganese can lead to symptoms such as interveinal chlorosis and stunted growth in plants.

While zinc, iron, and copper are also important micronutrients, each serves distinct functions in plant health and development. Zinc is critical for enzyme function and gene expression, iron is vital for chlorophyll production and electron transport in photosynthesis, and copper is necessary for several enzyme systems, including those involved in lignin synthesis and metabolic redox processes. However, manganese's specific roles and involvement in key growth processes underscore its essential status for plants, making it a vital component in their overall nutrition.