What do tissue concentrations of plants typically measure?

Tissue concentrations in plants typically measure the levels of essential nutrients, specifically nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These macronutrients are critical for plant growth and development, and their concentrations in plant tissues can indicate the nutritional status of the plant. By analyzing tissue samples, agronomists and crop advisors can assess whether the plant has sufficient nutrition, is deficient, or if there is an excess of certain nutrients. This data is crucial for making informed decisions about fertilization and overall crop management.

The other options, while related to plant health and soil management, do not pertain directly to what tissue concentrations measure. Soil moisture levels reflect water availability rather than nutrient status. Organic matter content is linked to soil health and fertility but does not directly indicate nutrient levels in plant tissues. Topsoil thickness pertains to soil profile characteristics and does not give insights into plant nutrient concentration.