Deficiency Symptoms of Iron in Paddy Plants
Iron is an essential nutrient for the growth and development of paddy plants. It plays a crucial role in the synthesis of chlorophyll and enzymes that are involved in various metabolic processes. However, the deficiency of iron in paddy plants can lead to several physiological disorders, affecting the production yield and quality of the crops.
Here are some of the deficiency symptoms of iron in paddy plants:
1. Chlorosis: One of the early signs of iron deficiency in paddy plants is the development of yellowing or whitish patches on the leaves. This is caused due to a reduction in the synthesis of chlorophyll, which is essential for the plant’s photosynthesis process. The chlorosis initially appears on the younger leaves and gradually spreads throughout the plant.
2. Stunted Growth: Iron deficiency can lead to the stunted growth of paddy plants. The stem and roots remain thin and weak. The plant becomes more susceptible to pest and disease attacks.
3. Poor Grain Formation: Iron deficiency in paddy plants can also result in the poor formation of grains. The size, weight, and quality of the grains are affected. This ultimately impacts the yield of the crops.
4. Reduced Tolerance to Stress: Iron-deficient plants are highly sensitive to various environmental stresses such as cold, heat, and drought. They are unable to cope up with these stress factors, leading to plant death in severe cases.
5. Interveinal Chlorosis: Besides overall yellowing of leaves, interveinal chlorosis is a common symptom of iron deficiency, wherein the veins of the leaves remain green while the areas between them turn yellow or whitish. This occurs due to the shortage of iron to manufacture chlorophyll in this specific region of the plant.
6. Necrosis: In severe cases of iron deficiency, the affected areas of the plant may start exhibiting necrotic spots. These dead spots can appear on the tips and margins of leaves, as well as stems and roots.
To prevent iron deficiency in paddy plants, farmers need to ensure the appropriate supply of iron through fertilizers, organic matter, or soil supplementation. A well-drained and adequately aerated soil with pH levels between 5.0 to 5.5 can ensure optimal uptake of iron by paddy plants. If identified early, iron deficiency in paddy plants can be treated by applying chelated iron or foliar sprays to the crops.
In conclusion, iron deficiency can have severe consequences on the growth and productivity of paddy plants. Therefore, it is vital to keep an eye on the symptoms of iron deficiency and take necessary preventive measures to ensure healthy crop growth.