Groundnut Leaf Yellowing (Chlorosis) Problem: Causes, Symptoms and Remedies
Groundnut is an important oilseed crop grown in many parts of the world. However, it is prone to a number of diseases and pests that can reduce yield and quality of the crop. One of these problems is groundnut leaf yellowing or chlorosis.
The chlorosis of groundnut leaves is characterized by the yellowing of leaves due to the loss of chlorophyll. It affects the production of photosynthesis in the plant, leading to reduced growth, development and crop yield. Here are some of the causes, symptoms and remedial measures to tackle the issue:
1. Causes of the problem
Groundnut leaf yellowing or chlorosis is caused due to the deficiency of essential nutrients such as nitrogen (N), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), and zinc (Zn) in the soil. These nutrients play a vital role in the plant’s productivity, growth and development. Their deficiency can lead to the yellowing of the leaves, leading to plant death.
Other causes include the use of high or low pH soils, water-logging, high levels of salt, nutrient imbalance, and root disease, which can alter the nutrient functions of the plant and, as a result, ultimately leading to the yellowing of leaves.
2. Symptoms of the problem
The symptoms of yellowing of groundnut leaves begin with the yellowing of the lower leaves near the base of the plant. As the deficiency persists, it spreads upwards towards the younger leaves, and its severity increases. The leaves gradually turn yellow and wither and eventually fall from the plant. Yellowing of the veins of the leaves is also noticed in advanced cases of chlorosis.
3. Remedies for the problem
If the cause of the yellowing of the leaves is due to nutrient deficiency, applying fertilizer to the soil can help alleviate the problem. The soil pH should also be tested, and if it is too high or too low, lime or sulfur should be applied to balance it.
For crop like groundnut, fertilizers such as urea or ammonium sulfate are useful for nitrogen supplementation. Iron supplementation can be administered through the use of iron chelates. The use of EDDHA iron chelate is useful in soil with high pH and carbonate content, while iron seaweed provides iron correction in momentary nutrient mineralization and every management period.
Magnesium deficiency can be treated by adding dolomite powder or soaking the seeds in magnesium sulfate. Zinc can be added to the soil using zinc sulfate.
It is also essential to maintain adequate soil moisture and drainage. Crop rotation practices and the application of organic matter can help improve soil fertility, and ultimately enhance the growth of the groundnut plants.
In conclusion, groundnut leaf yellowing or chlorosis can prove damaging to the crop, leading to a significant loss in yield, if not appropriately addressed. It is critically important to examine the causes of yellowing, monitor the symptoms carefully, and to apply the appropriate remedial measures to achieve a healthy and productive groundnut crop.