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Plant Nutrition I
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:37:09
Abstract
The aim of this course is to present the processes controlling the uptake and transport of nutrients by the plant, the assimilation of nutrients in the plant, the effect of nutrients on crop yield and quality, and the role of the soil as a source of nutrients for crops.
Objective
Remembering: Students will recall how mineral nutrients are absorbed through roots, transported within plants, and assimilated and how nutrients are released from soil. Understanding: Students will explain the roles of these nutrients in plants. Applying: Students will demonstrate the significance of nutrients for yield formation and crop product quality. Analyzing: Students will differentiate between the effects of various nutrients on yield formation and crop product quality. Evaluating: Students will assess the impact of different nutrient levels on the yield and quality of crops. Creating: Students should be able to design fertilization plans suitable for field crops growing under Swiss conditions. (these learning objectives were formulated with the support of Microsoft copilot)
Content
A general introduction explains the needs of appropriately managing nutrients in plant production. Afterwards, we will study the physiology of plant nutrition (nutrient uptake by roots; nutrient transports in the plant; physiological roles of nutrients in the plant). Then the role of nutrients for yield formation and their effects on crop quality is dealt with.
Resources
Lecture Notes
LinkChapter 1 - Introduction, Definition and Classification of NutrientsChapter 2 - Ion Uptake Mechanisms of Individual Cells and Roots: Short-distance TransportChapter 3 - Long-distance Transport in the Xylem and PhloemChapter 5 - Mineral Nutrition, Yield and Source–Sink RelationshipsChapter 6 - Functions of MacronutrientsChapter 7 - Function of Nutrients: MicronutrientsChapter 9 - Nutrition and QualityChapter 12 - Nutrient Availability in SoilsChapter 14 - Rhizosphere Chemistry in Relation to Plant NutritionChapter 16 - Nitrogen Fixation
Literature
Link
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Semesterly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| revision course / private study |
Plant Nutrition I
Self-study course. No presence required.
|
No time listed | 60 h semesterly |
Offered In
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Course Units for Additional Admission Requirements (The courses below are only available for MSc students with additional admission requirements.)
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