Control of Zinc Deficiency in Paddy
Zinc is one of the essential micronutrients required for the proper growth and development of paddy plants. However, due to the widespread cultivation of paddy in the same soil for many years, the zinc content in the soil decreases, leading to zinc deficiency in the plants. Zinc deficiency can cause stunted growth, reduced yield, and quality of the crop. Therefore, it is essential to control zinc deficiency in paddy. Here are some ways to control zinc deficiency in paddy.
1. Soil Management:
Zinc deficiency can be prevented by maintaining the soil pH at optimal levels. The ideal soil pH for paddy cultivation is between 5.5 to 7.5. In alkaline soils, zinc is less available to the paddy plants, leading to deficiency. To avoid this, soil amendments like gypsum or sulfur can be used to reduce soil pH. Also, the use of organic manure can help to increase the availability of zinc in the soil.
2. Zinc Fertilizers:
Application of zinc fertilizers like zinc sulfate, zinc oxide, or zinc chelates can provide the required zinc to the paddy plants. Foliar application of zinc sulfate is the most effective way to control zinc deficiency. It can be sprayed on the leaves of the plant at a concentration of 0.3% at critical growth stages like tillering and panicle initiation.
3. Crop Rotation:
Crop rotation is another effective way to control zinc deficiency in paddy. Rotation of paddy with leguminous crops like soybean or cowpea can add nitrogen and organic matter to the soil, which increases the availability of zinc in the soil. The leguminous crops also have the capability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, which benefits the succeeding crops.
4. Seed Treatment:
Seed treatment with zinc-based fungicides or micronutrient fertilizers can also provide zinc requirements to the paddy seedlings. The zinc-based fungicides not only provide zinc nutrition but also protect the seeds from fungal and bacterial diseases.
In conclusion, zinc deficiency is a crucial issue that needs to be addressed for the optimal growth and yield of paddy. The aforementioned methods can help control zinc deficiency in paddy and improve the quality and yield of crops. Proper soil management, application of zinc fertilizers, crop rotation, and seed treatment with zinc-based products are the key strategies to overcome zinc deficiency in paddy.