What primary benefit does potassium provide to plants under stress?

Potassium plays a crucial role in helping plants manage stress, particularly in terms of enhancing water retention and improving disease resistance. Under stressful conditions such as drought or high salinity, potassium helps to regulate the opening and closing of stomata, which are the pores on the leaves that allow for gas exchange. By maintaining optimal stomatal function, potassium aids in conserving water, allowing the plant to manage water stress more effectively.

Additionally, potassium is essential for the synthesis of proteins and sugars, which contribute to overall plant health and vigor. This nutrient also plays a key role in activating various enzymes that are important for metabolic processes, including those that boost the plant's defense mechanisms against diseases. Therefore, potassium strengthens the plant's resilience to stress by improving its ability to retain moisture and fend off pathogens, directly linking it to the health and survival of the plant under adverse conditions.