Study on Zinc as Plant Nutrient: A Review

Abstract

Zinc (Zn) is a very essential micronutrient which has the potential to improve nutrient use efficiency and productivity of field crops in deficient soils. In India, zinc is considered the fifth most important yield limiting nutrient after N, P, K and S in upland crops, whereas in lowland crops like rice, it is next to N. It plays a vital role in the production of biomass through its influence on diverse physiological and metabolic processes. It is responsible for formation of IAA (Auxin), acts as cofactor in many enzymes, gene expression, signal transduction, chlorophyll biosynthesis and protection against photo-oxidative damages and heat stress and resistance to infection by certain pathogen. Zinc deficiency cause yellow or white striping of the leaves maize, wheat, rice, onion, bean, sorghum etc, usually developing near the stalk. Plants are often stunted with shortened internodes and reddish discoloration of the nodal tissues. Due to proper managements of soil (Like: determination of Zn status in soil before crop sowing, suitable source of Zn materials, definite rate/quantity of Zn application, suitable time and method of Zn application along with proper balancing of other nutrients and side by side maintain the organic matter) to improve the yield, growth and reproduction of crops under Zn deficient soils. Therefore, the present review article is to be evaluated on “Study on Zinc as Plant Nutrient”. This finding should be encouraged to farmers and students who have involved in agricultural sectors.