Zinc deficiency in wheat is a physiological disorder caused by insufficient zinc in the soil, which often results in reduced grain weight and can affect approximately 10% of wheat yield. When wheat lacks zinc during its growth stage, it exhibits symptoms such as shortened internodes, clustered leaves, wrinkled leaf margins, and whitish veins, creating a distinctive pattern of yellow, white, and green stripes. White or yellow seedlings may appear, and in severe cases, seedlings may die, with delayed earing and smaller spikes. In recent years, the occurrence of this condition has been increasing, indicating a growing concern that needs attention from all stakeholders.
One of the main reasons for the rising prevalence of zinc deficiency in wheat is the declining zinc content in the soil due to continuous high-yield crop production. Additionally, excessive use of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers has contributed significantly. As farmers aim for higher yields, the application of chemical fertilizers—especially those rich in nitrogen and phosphorus—has increased. This not only raises the concentration of soil solution, making it harder for wheat to absorb nutrients, but also creates an antagonistic effect between zinc and phosphate absorption. Soils with high levels of available phosphorus are more prone to zinc deficiency. A balanced ratio of phosphorus to zinc in the soil should be around 25:1, and the higher the phosphorus-to-zinc ratio, the less likely wheat is to absorb zinc effectively. Moreover, high nitrogen levels can also interfere with the availability of zinc in the soil.
Another contributing factor is the increase in soil organic matter, which enhances microbial activity and leads to the complexation of available zinc, reducing its effectiveness. This form of temporary zinc deficiency typically resolves as the wheat plant develops further. The rise in multiple cropping indices has also removed significant amounts of zinc from the soil, exacerbating the issue.
To address this problem, several prevention and control measures can be implemented. First, using formula fertilizers like Wooli brand wheat fertilizer, which includes essential trace elements such as zinc, can help prevent physiological disorders while saving time and labor. Second, promoting balanced fertilization is crucial—avoid over-reliance on single fertilizers, and instead apply them based on soil fertility and target yield. Adjust the proportions and timing of sub-fertilization according to the growth stages of wheat to avoid improper practices.
Applying zinc fertilizer as a base is also effective. For each hectare, 1–2 kilograms of zinc sulfate heptahydrate can be mixed into the soil during land preparation, and this practice is usually done once every 3–5 years. Another method is seed soaking: soak selected seeds in a 0.05% zinc sulfate solution for 12–24 hours before drying. Foliar spraying with a 0.30%–0.40% zinc sulfate solution, applied 2–3 times at intervals of 5–7 days, is also recommended. It's best to mix it with amino acid or humic acid-based foliar fertilizers for better results.
When applying zinc fertilizer, ensure that the amount does not exceed 2 kg per mu (approximately 0.067 hectares), and the spray concentration should not exceed 0.04%. Exceeding these limits may cause toxicity and harm the crop. Zinc fertilizer has limited mobility in the soil and tends to be fixed, so it’s important to spread it evenly and spray it uniformly on both sides of the leaves for maximum effectiveness. Avoid mixing zinc fertilizer with alkaline fertilizers or pesticides, as this can reduce its efficiency.
Zinc fertilizer has a residual effect and doesn't need to be applied every year. Applying it every other year generally provides good results. However, the market currently has many fake zinc fertilizers, often substituted with magnesium-based products. Always verify the authenticity of the product before purchasing.
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