Manganese (Mn) is an essential micronutrient required by plants for proper growth and development. It plays a significant role in photosynthesis, respiration, and the synthesis of proteins and chlorophyll. However, the deficiency of manganese is a common problem faced by wheat growers worldwide, leading to stunted growth and yield loss. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the signs of manganese deficiency, causes, and effective measures to control it in wheat crop.
Signs of Manganese Deficiency in Wheat Crop:
Early detection of manganese deficiency can help farmers take the necessary corrective measures. Here are some visible signs of manganese deficiency in wheat crop:
1) Chlorosis:
Chlorosis is the yellowing of leaves due to insufficient availability of Mn. The leaves’ veins remain green, and the yellowing may begin from the leaves’ tips before spreading to the entire leaf.
2) Necrosis:
The deficiency of Mn may cause the death of tissues or cells, resulting in necrosis, which appears as brownish-black patches on the leaves.
3) Poor Root Growth:
Manganese deficiency can cause poor root growth as Mn is essential for root cell division.
Causes of Manganese Deficiency in Wheat Crop:
Several factors can cause manganese deficiency in wheat crop, including:
1) Soil pH:
Soil pH is a significant factor affecting the availability of Mn. In alkaline soils, the Mn becomes less available to the plant, leading to deficiency.
2) Soil Type:
Manganese deficiency is more common in sandy soils than in clay soils as Mn retention is less in sandy soils.
3) High Organic Matter Content:
Soils with a high organic matter content can cause Mn deficiency as the organic matter can bind with Mn, reducing its availability.
Effective Measures to Control Manganese Deficiency in Wheat Crop:
1) Soil Testing:
Soil testing is the best method to determine the deficiency of Mn in the soil. This will help farmers apply the right amount of Mn based on the soil test results.
2) Foliar Application:
Foliar application of Mn can help alleviate the deficiency of Mn in wheat crop. Applying a solution of Mn sulfate or organic chelated Mn to the leaves can improve Mn uptake.
3) Liming and Acidification:
The application of lime can help reduce Mn toxicity in the soil, while the application of elemental sulfur can reduce alkalinity and increase Mn availability.
4) Crop Rotation:
Crop rotation can help reduce Mn deficiency by allowing the breakage of the crop cycle that can deplete Mn levels in the soil.
In conclusion, manganese deficiency can cause significant yield losses in wheat crop. Proper soil testing, foliar applications, liming and acidification, and crop rotation are effective measures that farmers can employ to control Mn deficiency. By understanding the visible signs of deficiency and its causes, growers can take the necessary actions early on, preventing yield losses and ensuring the proper growth of their wheat crop.