Berseem crop is widely grown in many regions of the world as it is highly nutritious and provides an excellent source of protein to livestock. It is a cool-season forage crop, which means it can grow during the winter months when other crops cannot. However, one of the significant challenges that farmers face when cultivating berseem crop is manganese deficiency.
Manganese is one of the essential micronutrients required for the healthy growth and development of berseem crop. It is responsible for several vital functions within the plant, including photosynthesis, enzyme activation, and nitrogen metabolism. Manganese deficiency leads to a reduced yield of the crop, poor quality forage, and susceptibility to various plant diseases.
Symptoms of Manganese Deficiency in Berseem Crop
The symptoms of manganese deficiency in berseem crop can manifest in several ways. One of the significant symptoms is a yellowing of leaves, which starts from the tips and edges and gradually spreads to the entire leaf surface. The leaves may also become thinner, smaller, and wrinkled.
Another symptom of manganese deficiency is stunted growth of the plant. The plants may also exhibit signs of malformation, such as twisted stems and leaves, which can result in reduced photosynthesis and lower yield.
Causes of Manganese Deficiency in Berseem Crop
Manganese deficiency can occur in berseem crop under several circumstances. One of the leading causes of manganese deficiency is an acidic soil pH. Berseem crop requires a soil pH range of 6.5-7.2 for proper growth and development. If the soil pH falls below 6.0, manganese becomes less available for the plant, leading to deficiency.
Another cause of manganese deficiency is low soil manganese levels. This can occur in soils with low organic matter content or in soils that have been heavily fertilized with phosphorus. High levels of phosphorus in the soil can tie up manganese and prevent it from being absorbed by the plant, leading to deficiency.
Management of Manganese Deficiency in Berseem Crop
The management of manganese deficiency in berseem crop involves several strategies. One effective method is to maintain the soil pH within the range of 6.5-7.2. This can be achieved by applying lime to acidic soils to raise the pH level.
Another strategy is to ensure that the soil has sufficient levels of organic matter. Organic matter increases the soil’s ability to hold onto essential nutrients such as manganese, making them readily available to the plant.
It is also essential to ensure that the soil has adequate levels of phosphorus. This can be achieved by applying phosphorus fertilizers in the recommended amounts and avoiding overfertilization.
In conclusion, manganese deficiency is a common problem in berseem crop cultivation. Farmers can take several measures to prevent or manage the deficiency, including maintaining the soil pH, increasing organic matter levels, and ensuring adequate levels of phosphorus in the soil. By adopting these strategies, farmers can improve the crop’s yield and quality and reduce the risk of plant diseases.