Mineral nutrients as regulators of plant flowering time: A molecular perspective

Flowering time is a key agronomic trait that influences plant reproductive success and crop yield, and its regulation is closely associated with soil nutrient availability. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms through which macronutrients and micronutrients regulate flowering time in plants. An emerging central theme is that nutrient-derived signaling integrates with core flowering regulatory pathways, including the photoperiodic, gibberellin, vernalization, autonomous, and sugar pathways, with nitrogen and phosphorus being the most extensively studied. However, major knowledge gaps remain regarding the regulatory roles of potassium, sulfur, and micronutrients, as well as species-specific nutrient responses and the molecular basis of nutrient-nutrient and nutrient-environment interactions in flowering regulation. In addition, the role of nutrient-derived metabolites and rhizosphere microorganisms in flowering control remains largely unexplored. Addressing these challenges is essential for the rational development of crop varieties with optimized flowering time and enhanced nutrient use efficiency through targeted genetic engineering, molecular breeding, and innovative nutrient management strategies, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural development.