Fertilizer and Nutrient for better growth in Wheat Crop
Wheat is a widely cultivated crop worldwide famous for its nutritional value. It is an extensively used grain in food products like bread, pasta, and many more. As with all crops, to produce a better yield, it is essential to provide the right amount of fertilizers and nutrients to ensure proper growth. In this article, we will discuss the most critical fertilizers and nutrients required for wheat growth.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen is one of the crucial nutrients necessary for wheat growth. It helps to develop chlorophyll in the plant’s leaves and promotes photosynthesis. Nitrogen also enhances the crop yield, protein content, and grain weight of the wheat. Nitrogen deficiency can cause stunted growth, yellowing and premature aging of the leaves. Experts recommend around 120 to 140 kg of nitrogen per hectare for attaining maximum grain yield.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is used by wheat plant roots to develop, transfer, and store the energy it needs to grow. It plays an essential role in the early development stages of the plant. Phosphorus deficiency in the plant can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the leaves, limiting plant growth and reducing yield. Wheat plants thrive with soil Phosphorus levels of around 50 Kg per hectare.
Potassium
Potassium is commonly known as a stress-relieving nutrient; it helps to improve the quality of the wheat crop. Potassium assists in the formation of sturdy stems, resistance to diseases, water stress tolerance, and better grain quality. It helps in the production of oils and proteins in the grain. The optimal potassium fertilizer required by wheat is around 60 Kg/ha.
Sulfur
Sulfur is essential for the health of wheat crops; it helps to build amino acids and proteins. It is also involved in chlorophyll formation, which is essential for photosynthesis. The optimal sulfur fertilizer for wheat crops is around 20 Kg/ha.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral for wheat growth. It is needed for the development of leaves and stems. Zinc also plays a critical role in many enzymes responsible for protein synthesis. Wheat crops require around 2.0 Kg/ha of Zinc in the field, with Farmers opting for Zinc Sulfate or Zinc Oxide to supply this nutrient.
In conclusion, providing the right amount of fertilizers and nutrients to wheat crops is crucial for the yield, quality, and overall health of the plant. Adequate nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, and zinc are some of the essential nutrients required for optimum wheat growth. Farmers can choose between organic or synthetic fertilizers, depending on the needs, to ensure a steady supply of nutrients throughout the wheat growth cycle.