Any visible deviation from the normal structure and function of plants due to lack or unavailability of particular element below its critical concentration is deficiency symptom of that mineral element.
The common symptoms observed in plants are as follows:
1. Stunting : Retarded growth and thus stem appears short and condensed.
2. Chlorosis : This is loss or lack of chlorophyll that result in yellowing of leaf.
3. Necrosis : It is localized death of tissue. Mottling : This is appearance of green or non-green patches or spots on leaves. Abscission : This is premature fall of leaves, buds, fruits and flowers.