Sure, here’s an article on controlling zinc deficiency in paddy nursery:
Zinc is an essential micronutrient required for the healthy growth and development of paddy plants. Zinc deficiency in paddy plants can lead to stunted growth, reduced yield, and poor quality of grains. Zinc deficiency in paddy plants usually occurs in the nursery stage. Therefore, it is crucial to control zinc deficiency in the paddy nursery to ensure healthy growth of the plants and to obtain maximum yield.
Here are some ways to control zinc deficiency in the paddy nursery:
1. Use zinc-enriched fertilizers: Zinc-enriched fertilizers can significantly reduce zinc deficiency in paddy plants. Zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) is one of the most commonly used zinc fertilizers. The recommended dose of zinc sulfate is 25 to 50 kg per hectare, depending on the deficiency of zinc in the soil.
2. Use zinc chelates: Chelating agents like EDTA (Ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid) can be added to the soil to improve the availability of zinc to the plants. Zinc chelates are more effective in controlling zinc deficiency as they remain bound to the soil particles and release zinc slowly, ensuring a steady supply of zinc to the plants.
3. Soil and water management: Proper management of soil and water can help prevent zinc deficiency in the paddy nursery. Soil pH should be maintained between 6.0 and 7.0, as zinc availability to plants decreases at higher or lower pH levels. Appropriate irrigation practices and drainage are also necessary to maintain optimum soil moisture levels.
4. Crop rotation: Crop rotation is an effective way to replenish the soil with essential nutrients, including zinc. Rotation of paddy with legumes, such as beans or peas, can improve the availability of zinc in the soil.
5. Seed treatment: Treating paddy seeds with zinc-enriched solutions can also reduce zinc deficiency in the nursery. It ensures that plants get the required amount of zinc right from the early stage of growth. Seed treatment is an effective and economical method of controlling zinc deficiency in paddy plants.
In conclusion, zinc deficiency is a common problem in the paddy nursery, and it can be controlled by using zinc-enriched fertilizers, chelates, proper soil and water management, crop rotation, and seed treatment. By implementing these measures, farmers can improve the yield and quality of their paddy crops, leading to increased profits.