Agrinomy
Modern agronomy. Made practical.
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Water, Roots & Irrigation
Lesson 2 of 13
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Bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻)

Plant Nutrition

Role in plants

Bicarbonate is not a nutrient. It affects plants indirectly by altering pH, nutrient availability, and root function.

Stress effects

  • Induced iron, manganese, and zinc deficiency
  • Rising substrate pH
  • Reduced root function
  • Carbonate precipitation with calcium and magnesium

Sources

  • Hard irrigation water
  • Limestone aquifers
  • Dissolved CO₂ equilibria

Agronomic significance

Bicarbonate is a primary driver of many “mystery” micronutrient problems and must be managed via acidification and water treatment.

Interaction form

  • HCO₃⁻

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