Yes, plants absolutely need nitrogen to synthesize amino acids.
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and proteins are essential for virtually all plant functions, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction. Nitrogen is a crucial component of the amino acid structure itself. Plants obtain nitrogen from the soil, along with carbon and oxygen from the air and hydrogen from water, and combine these elements through complex biochemical pathways, such as photosynthesis, to create amino acids. Without adequate nitrogen, plants cannot produce sufficient amino acids, leading to stunted growth, chlorosis (yellowing of leaves), and reduced yields. Nitrogen is often a limiting nutrient for plant growth, meaning that its availability is the primary factor restricting a plant's ability to thrive.
Therefore, nitrogen is not merely helpful, but is fundamentally required for plants to synthesize amino acids, which in turn are necessary for protein production and overall plant health.
