Deficiency of Manganese in Wheat Crop: Causes, Symptoms, and Remedies
Wheat is one of the most important staple crops, providing essential sustenance to millions of people around the world. However, like all crops, wheat can be susceptible to nutrient deficiencies that can impact its growth and yield. One of the most common deficiencies in wheat crops is the lack of manganese. Manganese is an essential micronutrient that plays a critical role in the growth and development of plants. In this article, we will take a closer look at the causes, symptoms, and remedies for manganese deficiency in wheat crops.
Causes of Manganese Deficiency in Wheat Crop:
The deficiency of manganese in wheat crops can be caused by various factors like soil pH, nutrient uptake, and plant variety. Alkaline soils greater than pH 7.0 can make manganese unavailable to plants leading to deficiency. Inadequate manganese levels in soil moisture and an excessive presence of organic matter can also cause this deficiency. Additionally, agricultural practices such as frequent use of fertilizers that contain high concentrations of phosphorus and calcium can hinder manganese uptake in plants.
Symptoms of Manganese Deficiency in Wheat Crop:
Manganese deficiency can have a significant impact on wheat crop growth and development. The first visible symptom of manganese deficiency is the yellowing of leaves starting from the younger leaves because manganese plays an essential role in photosynthesis. As a result, lack of manganese will lead to reduced chlorophyll production which leads to yellowing of leaves. Deficiency also leads to interveinal chlorosis caused by a lack of chlorophyll. Moreover, the growth of the plant may also become slow because manganese is essential for carbohydrate metabolism. In severe cases, the plant may develop necrosis or yellow spots on the leaves, which will gradually turn brown.
Remedies for Manganese Deficiency in Wheat Crop:
To prevent and remedy manganese deficiencies in wheat crops, it is crucial to maintain the correct pH level of the soil to ensure the availability of manganese. Liming acidic soil can raise the pH level and increase manganese availability. In severe cases, correcting the soil pH level may not be enough, and adding a manganese chelate fertilizer can help ensure proper uptake by plants. Additionally, reducing the usage of phosphorus-rich fertilizers will prevent over-accumulation of phosphorus, which can inhibit manganese uptake. Crop rotation with legumes like soybean and pea can also help in increasing the manganese level in the soil.
In conclusion, managing and preventing manganese deficiency in wheat crops can improve crop productivity. Proper control of fertilizers, timely diagnosis, correcting soil pH, and using mineral supplements can help combat this problem. With the right measures, farmers can maintain healthy crops with optimal yields and ensure an adequate supply of this important staple crop.