Micronutrients

Micronutrients are essential for plant growth and development, but they are required in very small quantities. Indian soils are generally poor in micronutrients, and their use has become increasingly important in recent decades to maintain high crop yields.

Some of the most important micronutrients for Indian agriculture include:

  • Zinc
  • Boron
  • Iron
  • Manganese
  • Copper
  • Molybdenum

Micronutrients can be applied to the soil or to the foliage of plants. Soil application is more common, but foliar application can be more effective for correcting micronutrient deficiencies that are already present in the plant.

Micronutrients can be used in a variety of forms, including:

  • Sulphates
  • Chelates
  • Glycinates
  • Proteates
  • Boric acid
  • Borax
  • Disodium octaborate
  • Potassium tetraborate
  • Sodium molybdate
  • Ammonium molybdate

It is important to note that using single micronutrients can give rise to toxicity problems. To avoid this, micronutrient mixtures are often used. Micronutrient mixtures can be formulated to meet the specific needs of different crops and soil types.

Micronutrient use in Indian agriculture has a number of benefits, including:

  • Increased crop yields
  • Improved crop quality
  • Enhanced tolerance to pests and diseases
  • Reduced use of chemical fertilizers
  • Improved soil health

How to Use Micronutrients in Indian Agriculture

To use micronutrients effectively in Indian agriculture, it is important to:

  • Test the soil to determine which micronutrients are deficient.
  • Apply micronutrients at the recommended rates and times.
  • Use micronutrient mixtures to avoid toxicity problems.

Micronutrient use is an important part of sustainable agriculture in India. By using micronutrients effectively, farmers can increase crop yields, improve crop quality, and reduce their reliance on chemical fertilizers.

Here are some specific examples of how micronutrients are being used in Indian agriculture:

  • Zinc sulphate is being used to improve the yield and quality of wheat, rice, and maize.
  • Boric acid is being used to improve the yield and quality of cotton, mustard, and groundnut.
  • Iron sulphate is being used to improve the yield and quality of rice, beans, and citrus fruits.
  • Manganese sulphate is being used to improve the yield and quality of soybeans, peanuts, and potatoes.
  • Copper sulphate is being used to improve the yield and quality of rice, wheat, and grapes.
  • Molybdenum is being used to improve the yield and quality of legumes and oilseeds.

Micronutrient use is still relatively low in India, but it is growing rapidly. As farmers become more aware of the benefits of micronutrients, their use is expected to continue to increase in the coming years.