Zinc is an essential micronutrient that is vital for plant growth and development, including wheat. However, zinc deficiency is a widespread problem in many areas of the world, and it can severely impact crop yield and quality. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies for controlling zinc deficiency in wheat.
1) Soil management: Soil pH is a critical factor that affects the availability of zinc in the soil. Acidic soils (pH<5.5) tend to bind to zinc and make it unavailable to plants, while alkaline soils (pH>7.5) can reduce the uptake of zinc by plants. Therefore, maintaining the optimal pH range of 6.0-7.5 can help to improve the availability of zinc in the soil. Additionally, adding organic matter, such as compost, can enhance the soil’s cation exchange capacity and retain nutrients, including zinc, especially in sandy soils.
2) Fertilization: Zinc fertilization can effectively increase the uptake of zinc by plants and improve wheat yield and quality. The recommended application rate of zinc fertilizer depends on several factors, including soil type, cropping system, and climate conditions. The most common sources of zinc fertilizers are zinc sulfate, zinc oxide, and chelated zinc. Zinc sulfate is the cheapest option but is only suitable for soils with a pH below 7.5.
3) Breeding: Wheat breeding programs that incorporate genetic improvements for zinc uptake and translocation can help to develop zinc-efficient wheat varieties. Research has shown that some wheat cultivars have a higher ability to take up and transport zinc from the soil to the grain, leading to higher grain zinc concentrations. The use of molecular markers and genomic selection can speed up the development of zinc-efficient wheat varieties.
4) Foliar application: Foliar application of zinc can be an effective way to alleviate zinc deficiency in wheat, especially during critical growth stages. Zinc applied as a foliar spray is rapidly taken up by the plant and translocated to the grains. However, caution must be taken to ensure that the application rate is not too high as it may cause phytotoxicity. The recommended concentration of foliar zinc is usually between 0.1 to 0.5%.
In conclusion, controlling zinc deficiency in wheat requires a multi-faceted approach that includes soil management, fertilization, breeding, and foliar application. Implementing these strategies can help to improve wheat yield, quality, and nutritional value, contributing to food security and better health.