Molybdenum deficiency - Cauliflower

Symptoms
If molybdenum deficiency occurs in a late stadium of development, loose curds are formed. In addition small leaves and bracts penetrate the curd surface.

Reasons
Molybdenum deficiency of curd

Cauliflower - Deformation

Symptoms
If molybdenum deficiency occurs in a late stadium of development loose curds are formed. In addition small leaves and bracts penetrate curd surface.

Reasons
Molybdenum deficiency of a curd (right) compared to optimum supply (left).

Cauliflower - Deformation

Symptoms
Young seedlings with Boron deficiency show stunted growth and severe leaf deformations. Leaf blades are reduced and cupped upwards. Leaf margins show chlorosis and slight necrosis.

Reasons
Molybdenum deficiency Symptoms of Boron deficiency look similar.

Molybdenum deficiency made worse by

Acid soils
Low pH
Low levels of soil organic matter

Molybdenum is important for

Increased yields (especially with broccoli and cauliflower), inner quality (sugar and vitamin C content) and shelf life

Yara recommended fertilizers for Molybdenum

YaraVita MOLYTRAC 250

Cauliflower: 0.25 l/ha from 4 to 6 leaf stage. For moderate to severe deficiency, repeat applications should be made at the above rate at 10 to 14 day intervals, or a second application may be made at early head development or buttoning. Water rate: 200 l/ha.