Deficiency of Zinc Sulphate in Paddy Crop: A Concerning Issue
Paddy, also known as rice, is one of the most widely grown cereal crops in the world, serving as a staple food for more than half of the global population. However, like all other crops, paddy cultivation is also susceptible to various nutritional deficiencies, which can hinder its yield and quality. One such deficiency that has been increasingly observed in recent years is the deficiency of Zinc Sulphate.
Zinc is an essential micronutrient required by plants for their growth and development. It plays a crucial role in various plant processes, including photosynthesis, hormone regulation, stress response, and disease resistance. Zinc deficiency not only affects the yield of paddy but also affects its nutritional quality, altering its protein, carbohydrate, and vitamin content. The deficiency of zinc sulphate in the crop leads to various physiological and morphological changes, including stunted growth and reduced seedling vigour. The symptoms of zinc deficiency in paddy are visible as yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and necrosis of leaf tips.
One of the major reasons for zinc sulphate deficiency in paddy is the low availability of zinc in the soil. The factors that affect the availability of zinc in the soil include low organic matter content, alkaline soil pH, high soil phosphorus, and excessive use of chemical fertilizers. Zinc Sulphate is the best source of zinc to counter this deficiency. Zinc Sulphate is readily available in the market and can be applied during the planting, vegetative, and reproductive stages of the paddy crop.
The addition of Zinc sulphate in the soil, plants easily absorb zinc ions, and this helps in the development of roots, stems, and leaves. The zinc ions are also required for the synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and hormones, which regulate various plant processes. Increasing the availability of zinc sulphate in paddy leads to various benefits, including improved seedling vigour, increased plant height, increased tiller density, and better grain yield.
In conclusion, the deficiency of Zinc Sulphate in paddy crop is a concerning issue that needs to be addressed by farmers and researchers alike. Addressing this deficiency will contribute significantly to improving the yield, quality, and nutritional value of paddy, and could have a positive impact on global food security. Applying zinc sulphate to the soil, employing good agronomic practices and maintaining soil health can go a long way in preventing zinc sulphate deficiency.