Zinc is an essential micronutrient that plays a vital role in various physiological processes for plant growth and development. It is an important component of enzymes, hormones and chlorophyll, required for efficient photosynthesis and seed formation. Though zinc is required in small amounts, its deficiency can cause profound changes in plants, affecting their growth, yield and quality. Wheat is one of the major cereal crops that face zinc deficiency in different regions worldwide.
Zinc deficiency in wheat is a widespread problem, more commonly observed in alkaline and calcareous soils with a high pH that makes zinc less available to wheat roots. Additionally, overuse of chemical fertilizers containing phosphorus and nitrogen can also increase the deficiency of zinc. Symptoms of zinc deficiency in wheat include reduced growth, stunted growth, interveinal chlorosis, and reduction in grain yield and quality.
Several approaches can be applied to overcome zinc deficiency in wheat crops, including breeding of zinc-efficient varieties, soil amendment with zinc fertilizers, and foliar application of zinc-containing sprays. Breeding of zinc efficient wheat varieties involves selecting and developing varieties with improved zinc uptake and utilization. This approach is cost-effective and sustainable as it focuses on the genetic improvement of crops. However, breeding takes time, may require genetic transformation, and may not always lead to a significant enhancement of agronomic performance.
Soil amendment with zinc fertilizers is an effective and practical approach to overcome zinc deficiency in wheat. Zinc fertilizers can be applied to the soil either as inorganic or organic sources of zinc. Inorganic sources of zinc include Zinc Sulfate (ZnSO4), Zinc Oxide (ZnO) and Zinc Chloride (ZnCl2). While organic sources of zinc include Zinc Chelate (Zn-EDTA) and Zinc Amino Acid Complex (ZAAC). The application of inorganic zinc fertilizers can cause environmental pollution and can also lead to reduced soil fertility in the long term. In contrast, organic fertilizers provide a slow, steady release of zinc and improve soil organic matter content.
Foliar application of zinc-containing sprays is another option that can be used to overcome zinc deficiency in wheat. Foliar application involves the application of plant nutrients directly to the foliar surface of the crop. This approach provides a quick and efficient way of supplying zinc to the plants. The application of zinc-containing sprays enhances the physiological activities of plants, including photosynthesis, growth, and development.
In conclusion, Zinc deficiency in wheat crops is a significant challenge that affects crop yield and quality. Different approaches can be applied to overcome this problem, including breeding of zinc-efficient varieties, soil amendment with zinc fertilizers, and foliar application of zinc-containing sprays. Farmers should adopt a sustainable approach to improve the availability of zinc in soil, which will enhance wheat growth, yield and quality in the long run.