Problems of iron deficiency in different crop plants in India: Causative factors and control measures

Abstract

The problem of Fe‐deficiency chlorosis in different parts of India, particularly in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu States is described. The most affected crops are sugarcane, sorghum, groundnut and legumes. The soils in these affected areas are calcareous with pH above 8.

The general method for correcting chlorosis has been the application of Fe salts through the soil or as foliar sprays. In Tamil Nadu, an “organically complexed Fe”; has been tested and is found to increase Fe translocation and increase crop yield in sorghum.

Several cultivars of sorghum and chickpea were tested for Fe‐deficiency stress tolerance in solution culture, in the last few years and tolerant ones have been identified. It is suggested that Fe‐deficiency stress tolerance should be included as a criterion along with traits like high yields, in plant breeding and agronomy program.

Key words:

• Fe chlorosis
• crop plants
• sorghum
• sugarcane
• chickpea cultivars
• Fe uptake