Which nutrient's availability is particularly affected by soil pH in alfalfa?

Study for the Kentucky Certified Crop Advisor Exam. Prepare with multiple choice questions covering agriculture, pest management, and soil fertility. Each question includes hints and explanations to enhance your understanding. Get ready for your certification!

Molybdenum is a micronutrient whose availability is significantly influenced by soil pH, especially in the context of alfalfa cultivation. Alfalfa requires adequate levels of molybdenum for the efficient functioning of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in its root nodules. These bacteria play a crucial role in converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can utilize, thereby enhancing the plant's overall nitrogen nutrition.

In soils with high acidity (low pH), molybdenum becomes less available to plants, leading to deficiencies that can hinder alfalfa's growth and its ability to fix nitrogen. As soil pH increases, becoming more neutral or alkaline, the availability of molybdenum improves, allowing alfalfa to thrive and maximize its nitrogen fixation capabilities. This relationship underscores the importance of monitoring soil pH to ensure optimal nutrient availability for successful alfalfa production.

In contrast, while phosphorus and potassium are also affected by soil pH changes, their availability is generally less sensitive compared to molybdenum. Nitrogen, although crucial for plant growth, is not directly affected by pH in the same way, as nitrogen can be acquired through atmospheric fixation and organic matter decomposition independently of soil pH.

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