Zinc deficiency is a widespread problem in agricultural soils worldwide, particularly in regions where soils are poor in zinc or where the plant’s uptake of the nutrient is inhibited. Zinc is an essential micronutrient that plays a crucial role in plant growth and development, and its deficiency can lead to significant yield loss in crops, including wheat.
Wheat is a staple food crop in many countries, and its importance in global food security cannot be overstated. However, the incidence of zinc deficiency in wheat is a growing concern, and effective strategies are required to address this challenge.
Several approaches can be used to control zinc deficiency in wheat. The first is to improve soil health and fertility. Zinc is best absorbed by plants when the soil pH ranges from 6 to 7.5, so liming acidic soils can improve zinc availability. Additionally, organic amendments and fertilizers can increase soil organic matter content, structure, and texture, which can enhance zinc adsorption and retention.
Another approach is to use agronomic practices that improve zinc uptake in wheat. For instance, farmers can apply zinc fertilizers or micronutrient mixtures that contain zinc to the soil or through foliar spraying of the wheat plants. These applications should be timed early in the growing season to coincide with the periods of peak zinc uptake by the wheat plant. However, the rate, frequency, and timing of micronutrient applications should be based on the soil and plant tissue test results, ensuring that the plants receive adequate zinc without overloading them.
Breeding is another alternative that can improve the expression of genes associated with zinc uptake and utilization in wheat. Selecting and breeding wheat varieties that are tolerant to zinc deficiency can significantly increase yields in zinc-deficient soils. However, this approach requires significant research and time investment before the new varieties can be released to the farmers.
In conclusion, controlling zinc deficiency in wheat is crucial for enhancing food security in the world. Agronomic practices such as soil improvement, zinc fertilization, and foliar applications can help reduce zinc deficiency and improve crop yield and quality. However, long-term solutions, such as plant breeding, should also be pursued to address the underlying genetic factors, and a holistic approach should be adopted to achieve sustainable wheat production in zinc-deficient soils.