AN ESSENTIAL MICRO-ELEMENT Why is Zinc Important?
Zinc (Zn) is one among the seven Micronutrient elements that is indispensable for plant growth. Its presence activates a series of enzymes responsible for maintaining the course and tempo of several vital growth events. Zinc asserts in protein synthesis and production of auxins (growth promoting chemicals). Therefore, a low zinc supply encourages protein deficiency and dwarfism in plants. The net results of a zinc deficiency in soils are stunted crop plants, prolonged duration and poor yields. A severe deficiency can kill the crop. What is Zinc Deficiency? For optimum function of crop plants a certain minimum level of zinc supply is essential. If a soil, the principal resource from which plants draw their zinc needs, is unable to supply that minimum, a zinc deficiency situation arises. Such soils may contain large quantities of fixed zinc, but lack in a current supply that plants can readily encash to meet their ongoing needs. Soils Scientists often refer to this current supply as avai
