Plants use several trace elements in small quantities. The elements which are generally regarded as being essential micro-elements are Boron, cobalt, copper, iodine, iron, molybdenum, manganese, selenium, zinc, silicon, nickel and chlorine as fertilizer micronutrients.

Beyond the basic three essential nutrients, Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium (NPK), other requirements for plant growth and soil health are the secondary nutrients (S, Ca, Mg) and also micronutrients, which include iron, manganese, zinc, boron, molybdenum and copper.

Microelements in plants - There are 7 essential plant nutrient elements defined as micronutrients [boron (B), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), chlorine (Cl). They constitute in total less than 1% of the dry weight of most plants.

Micronutrients are one of the major groups of nutrients your body needs. They include vitamins and minerals. Vitamins are necessary for energy production, immune function, blood clotting and other functions. Meanwhile, minerals play an important role in growth, bone health, fluid balance and several other processes.

Micronutrients promote essential plant processes and growth, which translates into nutrient-rich food for animals and humans. Micronutrients include boron, chlorine, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum and zinc, which are often in short supply for growing crops. Micronutrients promote the strong, steady growth of crops that produce higher yields and increase harvest quality — maximizing a plant's genetic potential. In particular, their presence can have a great impact on root development, fruit setting and grain filling, seed viability and plant vigour and health.