Symptoms of Zinc deficiency

Zinc deficiency symptoms are often visible on the plant leaves and they can be recognized on the basis of following character :

  • Stunted plant growth (DWARF)
  • Yellowing of leaves (CLOROSIS)
  • Abnormal, thick and dark green of leaves (MOTTLE LEAF)
  • Decaying offered leaf tissue (NECROSIS)
  • Stem dwarfing, leaf curling and bushing of plant (ROSSETE)
  • Small in size, abnormal and twisted leaf (LITTLE LEAF)
  • Dropping of leaves
  • Abnormal growth of flower and fruits
  • Adverse effect on seed formation
  • Low productivity, low produce quality and low profits

Some times symptoms of Zinc deficiency are not seen but the crop production is adversely affected without application of zinc sulphate. This is called hidden hunger.

Zinc

Zinc acts as an essential micro nutrient for plant growth. As a result of extensive research conducted since 1960 in All India Co-ordinated Project on Micronutrients in soils and plants it has been concluded that zinc deficiencies are widespread in India. Most states now recognise the need reported where application of zinc along with NPK fertilizers becomes deciding factor for the success or failure of the crop.In plants zinc serves as a growth hormone and influences protein synthesis. Zinc deficiency often causes stunting of the plant, yellowing of the leaves, and decreased yields of seed, grain, vegetables or fruits.