Zinc is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development. It plays a vital role in various biochemical and physiological processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and enzyme catalysis. Zinc deficiency is a prevalent problem in wheat production worldwide, particularly in alkaline and calcareous soils, where zinc is less available to plants. Zinc deficiency can lead to reduced plant growth, delayed maturity, and decreased grain yield. However, proper management strategies can help control zinc deficiency in wheat.
Soil Management: Soil pH plays a crucial role in zinc availability. Zinc is more available to plants in acidic soils (pH <7) than in alkaline soils (pH>7). Liming (adding calcium carbonate) can raise soil pH, which can decrease zinc availability to plants. Therefore, soil pH should be maintained at the optimum level to enhance zinc uptake by wheat plants.
Fertilizer Management: Zinc fertilization is an effective strategy to control zinc deficiency in wheat. Various zinc fertilizers such as zinc sulphate, zinc oxide, and Zinc EDTA are available for wheat crop. The application of zinc fertilizer improves the growth, development, and yield of wheat crops. However, care should be taken while applying zinc fertilizer, as excessive use can lead to zinc toxicity.
Crop Rotations: Crop rotation is another management strategy to control zinc deficiency in wheat. Leguminous crops such as pea, lentils, and chickpeas, have the ability to improve soil fertility by fixing atmospheric nitrogen and increase soil zinc availability. Such crops can be grown in rotation with wheat to improve soil zinc status.
Genetic Management: Genetic modification is a novel approach to improve plant nutrient uptake and bioavailability. Studies have shown that the overexpression of zinc transporters and zinc-regulated genes in wheat plants can enhance zinc uptake and translocation, thus increasing zinc availability in the grain. Therefore, genetic engineering can be a potential strategy to breed wheat varieties that are more efficient in zinc uptake and utilization.
Conclusion: Zinc deficiency is a widespread problem in wheat production, but proper management strategies, such as soil, fertilizer, and genetic management, can help control zinc deficiency and improve wheat yield and quality. Crop rotation with leguminous crops and the use of zinc fertilizers can significantly improve soil zinc availability. In addition, genetic engineering can help breed wheat varieties that are more efficient in zinc uptake and utilization. Therefore, a combination of these management strategies can help control zinc deficiency in wheat production and alleviate food security concerns.