Phosphorus is an essential element for all plant life. It makes up an important part of plant genes and is essential for molecules that carry genetic information. P is needed for plant respiration. P is needed for energy storage and transfer. P is needed for cell division.
P is needed for cell enlargement.
P is needed for several other plant processes. The highest level of P in young plants is found in tissue, at the growing stage. As plants mature most of the P moves into the flower and the seed or fruit.