As a vital micronutrient, manganese plays a crucial role in the growth and development of wheat crops. Manganese is essential for the photosynthesis process in plants and helps in the synthesis of chlorophyll. It also acts as an enzyme activator that enables various metabolic processes in the plant’s cells. Manganese deficiency in wheat crops can cause significant yield losses, increased susceptibility to pests and diseases, and poor grain quality.
So, how many sprays of manganese are required in the wheat crop? The answer to this question depends on several factors such as soil type, weather conditions, crop variety, and fertility management practices. Generally, wheat crops require 1-2 foliar sprays of manganese during the growing season. The first application should be made at the tillering stage, when the plants have developed at least three to four leaves. The second spray should be done at the booting or heading stage, when the crop is about to form the head or the ear.
The amount of manganese to be sprayed depends on the concentration of available manganese in the soil and the crop’s nutrient demand. A soil test is necessary to determine the manganese levels in the soil and to calculate the right amount of manganese to be applied. The recommended rate of manganese spray is 500 g of manganese sulfate per hectare.
It is best to apply the manganese spray in the early morning or late afternoon to minimize leaf damage from the direct sun. The use of a good-quality sprayer and a fine nozzle is necessary for even distribution of the spray. It is also advisable to mix the manganese fertilizer with water and other spraying agents such as wetting agents and adjuvants to enhance the absorption and uptake of the nutrient by the plants.
Lastly, it is important to note that manganese spray should not be used as a substitute for soil manganese applications. An integrated approach to crop nutrient management should be adopted, which includes soil testing, balanced fertilization, and foliar spraying where necessary. A soil management plan that promotes soil health and fertility can reduce the need for manganese sprays and other inputs, making farming more sustainable and profitable in the long run.
In conclusion, wheat crops require 1-2 sprays of manganese during the growing season, with the first application done at the tillering stage and the second at the booting stage. The amount of manganese to be sprayed should be based on the soil nutrient levels and the crop’s nutrient demand. Manganese spray is not a substitute for soil applications and should be used as part of an integrated approach to crop nutrient management. With proper nutrient management practices, farmers can improve their crop yield and quality, reduce their input costs, and contribute to sustainable agriculture.