More nitrogen was removed from the soil by loblolly pine seedlings than any other nutrient, although potassium was a close second, table 3. In foliage, the concentration of nitrogen was higher than potassium, however, stems and roots contained more of the latter, table 2. Calcium was the next most abundant element n plant tissues, followed by phosphorus. Many samples were abnormally high in iron, aluminum, and manganese, apparently due to soil contamination. However, many nurseries were deficient in magnesium.
Higher concentrations represent luxury consumption.
Most samples in this survey were below this level of nitrogen but above the phosphorus level. Shear et al. Shear et al. Figure 16 shows the ratios of phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and calcium to nitrogen. The data are displayed as percent of nitrogen concentration.