Manganese Deficiency in Berseem Crop: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
Berseem crop is an important forage crop grown in various parts of the world, including India, Pakistan, and Egypt. It is a leguminous crop that provides good quality fodder for livestock and contributes to the fertility of the soil. However, berseem crop is also prone to various nutritional disorders, among which manganese (Mn) deficiency is a common one. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and management of manganese deficiency in berseem crop.
Causes of Manganese Deficiency in Berseem Crop
Manganese is an essential plant nutrient that plays a crucial role in photosynthesis, respiration, and enzyme activation. However, berseem crop may suffer from Mn deficiency due to various reasons, such as:
– Low availability of Mn in the soil, especially in alkaline or calcareous soils
– High levels of other nutrients, such as iron, zinc, or copper, which can inhibit Mn uptake and utilization
– Excessive application of fertilizers that are low in Mn or have a high pH, such as urea or ammonium sulfate
– Waterlogging or flooding, which can decrease oxygen availability and impair Mn absorption
Symptoms of Manganese Deficiency in Berseem Crop
Manganese deficiency in berseem crop can manifest in several ways, depending on the severity and duration of the deficiency. Some of the common symptoms are:
– Interveinal chlorosis, i.e., yellowing of the leaves between the veins, which starts from the tips and edges and spreads inward
– Necrosis, i.e., death of the leaf tissue, which may appear as brown or black spots or streaks on the affected leaves
– Stunted growth and reduced yield, as the plant cannot carry out essential metabolic processes due to Mn deficiency
– Poor quality of fodder, as the berseem crop may accumulate harmful compounds or digestibility inhibitors in response to Mn deficiency
Management of Manganese Deficiency in Berseem Crop
Manganese deficiency in berseem crop can be managed by several means, depending on the severity and specific requirements of the crop and soil. Some of the common strategies are:
– Soil testing and pH adjustment: Berseem crop should be grown in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0-6.5. If the soil pH is too high, lime or sulfur can be added to adjust it to the optimal range. Soil testing can also help determine the levels of Mn and other essential nutrients in the soil, and guide the application of fertilizers or manures that are rich in Mn.
– Foliar sprays: In severe cases of Mn deficiency, foliar sprays of Mn sulfate or chelated Mn can be applied to the crop during the vegetative stage to restore Mn levels. This method can be effective but requires careful timing and dosage to avoid phytotoxicity or other adverse effects.
– Crop rotation and intercropping: Berseem crop can benefit from crop rotation or intercropping with leguminous or non-leguminous crops that have a high Mn uptake capacity, such as soybean, cowpea, or maize. This method can improve the soil Mn levels and reduce the risk of Mn deficiency in subsequent berseem crops.
– Biological control: Some microorganisms, such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), can facilitate Mn uptake and transport by berseem crop roots. Introducing AMF or other beneficial microbes can help enhance the resilience of berseem crop to Mn deficiency and other stresses.
Conclusion
Manganese deficiency is a common nutritional disorder that can affect the growth and yield of berseem crop. To prevent or manage Mn deficiency, farmers should pay attention to the soil characteristics, nutrient status, and plant health of the crop, and adopt appropriate management practices accordingly. By ensuring optimal Mn levels in berseem crop, farmers can enhance the productivity and sustainability of their cropping systems and provide high-quality fodder for their livestock.