Major zinc fertilizer sources in India
- Zinc Sulphate Heptahydrate (21% Zn): Water-soluble crystalline fertilizer widely used for basal soil application.
- Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate (33% Zn): High-analysis powder or granular grade, delivering zinc and sulphur with lower application volume.
- Chelated Zinc (Zn-EDTA 12%): Organic chelated compound designed for foliar spraying and drip fertigation without soil fixation.
- Zinc Oxide (ZnO) and Nano Zinc: Insoluble suspension and nano-particulate formulations used for seed coating and foliar sprays.
Physiological role and crop deficiency indicators
- Auxin regulation: Zinc is required for the biosynthesis of tryptophan, the essential precursor for indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) auxin hormone.
- Paddy: Deficiency manifests as 'Khaira' disease, causing rusty reddish-brown patches on leaves and severely stunted tillers.
- Maize: Produces 'white bud' syndrome, where terminal growing leaves turn bleached white or pale yellow.
- Fruit crops: Induces 'little leaf' disorder, rosette shoot growth, and severe reduction in fruit size and juice content.
Application methods and soil compatibility
- Soil application: Broadcast based on Soil Health Card recommendations, typically applied once every two to three cropping seasons.
- Never mix zinc sulphate directly with water-soluble phosphatic fertilizers (DAP/SSP) to avoid forming insoluble zinc phosphate.
- Foliar application: Use chelated Zn-EDTA (12%) or neutralized zinc sulphate for rapid correction in standing crops showing deficiency symptoms.
Official source
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Soil Health Card Portal (Govt of India) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
Why is zinc fertilizer essential for crop plants?
Zinc is vital for auxin hormone production, protein synthesis, chlorophyll formation, and enzyme activation.
What are the common sources of zinc fertilizer in India?
Zinc sulphate (21% and 33%), chelated Zn-EDTA (12%), and nano zinc formulations.
What is the consequence of zinc deficiency in rice?
It causes Khaira disease, characterized by bronze leaf lesions, poor tillering, and stunted growth.
Can zinc fertilizers be applied via drip irrigation?
Yes, 100% water-soluble chelated Zn-EDTA (12%) is ideal for drip fertigation without risk of line clogging.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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