Iron is an essential micronutrient required for the growth and development of rice plants. The deficiency of iron in soil causes chlorosis or yellowing of leaves, stunted plant growth, and reduced yield. The iron deficiency in the paddy nursery is a common problem faced by farmers. The control of iron deficiency in the paddy nursery is essential to ensure healthy and vigorous rice seedlings that can be transplanted successfully and ultimately contribute to high yield.
Here are some measures that can be taken to control iron deficiency in the paddy nursery:
1. Soil preparation: Proper soil preparation is the first step to control iron deficiency in the paddy nursery. The soil should be well-drained and loose. The pH of the soil should be between 5 and 6.5, which is ideal for the growth of rice seedlings. Soil that is too acidic or alkaline can reduce the availability of iron to plants.
2. Iron supplements: Iron supplements in the form of ferrous sulfate, ferrous ammonium sulfate, or iron chelates can be added to the soil to increase the availability of iron to plants. These supplements can be mixed with the soil or sprayed on the seedlings with a foliar spray.
3. Organic matter: Incorporating organic matter into the soil can help in increasing the availability of iron to plants. Organic matter, such as compost or manure, improves the soil structure and increases the nutrient-holding capacity of the soil.
4. Water management: Proper water management is crucial to control iron deficiency in the paddy nursery. Irrigating the soil too much or too little can affect the availability of iron to plants. Overwatering can reduce the oxygen supply to the roots, leading to waterlogged soil, which decreases the availability of iron. On the other hand, insufficient watering can cause soil dryness, which affects the absorption of nutrients by the plants.
5. Iron-rich fertilizer: Using an iron-rich fertilizer such as ferrous sulfate or ferrous ammonium sulfate can help in preventing iron deficiency in the paddy nursery. These fertilizers can be applied once the seedlings start growing.
In conclusion, controlling iron deficiency in the paddy nursery is essential to ensure healthy and vigorous rice seedlings. The measures mentioned above can aid in preventing iron deficiency and ensuring the successful transplanting of rice seedlings, ultimately leading to high yield. Proper soil preparation, use of iron supplements, incorporation of organic matter, proper water management, and the use of an iron-rich fertilizer are some of the ways to control iron deficiency in the paddy nursery.