Manganese is one of the essential micronutrients required for the healthy growth and development of wheat crops. The deficiency of manganese is a common problem that farmers encounter, which affects the yield and quality of the wheat crop. Therefore, it is essential to have adequate knowledge about its symptoms and control measures.
Symptoms of Manganese Deficiency in Wheat Crop:
The symptoms of manganese deficiency in wheat crop are initially visible in young leaves. The leaves turn yellow, and they have dark veins. When the deficiency becomes severe, the chlorosis becomes prominent in older leaves as well. The leaves develop small brown spots, which become necrotic, and lead to premature senescence. The plants show stunted growth, and the yield is significantly reduced.
Control Measures for Manganese Deficiency in Wheat Crop:
1. Soil pH management:
The availability of manganese is influenced by soil pH. High soil pH causes the deficiency of manganese. Therefore, farmers should maintain the soil pH at a slightly acidic level, preferably between 6.0 to 6.5.
2. Application of Manganese Fertilizers:
Foliar and soil fertilization of MnSO4 or other manganese fertilizers help in controlling the deficiency of manganese in wheat crop. The foliar application is faster and more effective than soil application. The recommended dose is 1kg per ha of Manganese sulphate or other manganese sources.
3. Amending Manganese Deficiency in Wheat Crop
Farmers can add 10-20 kg of compost or well-rotten farmyard manure per square meter to amend the manganese deficiency in the wheat crop. Composts are beneficial because they acidify the soil, which helps to release the available manganese.
4. Timely Sowing of Wheat crop:
Late sowing of wheat crops tends to exacerbate the deficiency of manganese. Therefore, farmers should ensure that they plant the wheat crop on time.
Conclusion:
Manganese deficiency is a severe threat to the yield and quality of wheat crops. Farmers should be aware of the symptoms and control measures of this deficiency to ensure that they avoid it. Soil pH management, application of manganese fertilizers, amendments with compost, and timely sowing of wheat crops are some of the control measures that farmers can use to control manganese deficiency. By keeping these measures in mind, farmers can improve crop yields and reduce losses caused by manganese deficiency in wheat crop.