Zinc deficiency in marijuana plants

Zinc is necessary the proper growth and overall health of your marijuana plant. Zinc affects the strength of all parts of the plant such as the stems, branches, stalks and leaves. It is also a necessary element in many enzymes and a certain growth hormone called, auxin.

When plants don’t have the right amount of auxin the leaves and shoots will not grow. Zinc is also a major player in producing chlorophyll.

These deficiencies are similar to manganese and iron deficiencies, except that they influence new growth, causing them to become motionless. Zinc deficiency happens sometimes and usually is a result of the leaf blades becoming knotted and tangled. The buds can also get tangled as well.

Signs of a zinc deficiency

Chlorosis as well as the old and new leaves turning yellow between the veins are signs of a zinc deficiency. The newer leaves will begin turning yellow between the veins. The tips of the leaves will have distorted colors and begin to die.

The plant will no longer grow upward. As a result, there is not as much space between the newer nodes and this will make the new leaves get tangled. If it is producing buds the flowers will begin to die.

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The plant will usually have a dull feel to it. It is a rare occurrence for a marijuana plant to have too much zinc, but if it happens it will cause withering and possibly kill the plant. Not sure if your plants have a zinc deficiency?

Also read the article Nutrient deficiencies in marijuana plants for a list with pictures of all deficiencies.

How to fix a zinc deficiency

You can resolve zinc deficiency by implementing a micro mix compound containing zinc, iron and manganese. You can also try zinc sulfate (wiki), zinc oxide and chelated zinc. Another option is an excellent product such as Marijuana Booster, which gives your plant plenty of the variety of nutrients it needs, including zinc.

Also, flush your system with pure, pH water that has almost half of the necessary nutrients for your plant which will include, manganese, zinc and iron. Pay attention and give it a few days to fully recover from the new growth.

List of marijuana plant symptoms

Leaf color: 

• Yellow leaves on new growth
• Yellowing between veins
• Speckled / patchy pattern

Leaf symptoms:

• Upper leaves / New growth damaged
• Leaf tips appear burnt
• Leaf tips are dying
• Yellowing between veins
• Speckled / patchy
• Slow growth
• Non-vertical growth
• Leaves curl under

Plant symptoms:

• Slow growth
• Leaves curl under
• Too short

Other symptoms:

• Buds not getting heavier

Plants with strong genetics have less chance of getting sick. Make sure you buy marijuana seeds from a trusted seedbank.

Thanks for reading. Please leave comments or questions below and don’t forget to download my free grow bible

Robert