What principle states that just one factor can limit plant growth, causing yield drag even if all other factors are optimal?

The principle that indicates a single limiting factor can restrict plant growth while all other conditions are optimal is known as Liebig's law of minimum. This principle, formulated by Justus von Liebig, asserts that the growth of a plant is determined not by the total resources available but by the scarcest resource (the limiting factor).

For instance, if water, nutrients, and sunlight are abundant, but a necessary nutrient like nitrogen is lacking, the plant's growth will be hampered despite the availability of other growth-promoting conditions. This concept is crucial in agriculture and horticulture as it emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all necessary factors are in adequate supply to avoid yield drag and to maximize productivity. Identifying and correcting deficiencies in the limiting factor can lead to significant improvements in crop yield.