Wheat requires essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for healthy growth and development. These elements are crucial in large quantities, and any deficiency can lead to visible symptoms that help identify the problem and guide corrective actions.
When wheat lacks nitrogen, the plants grow weak, with thin and erect seedlings, few tillers, narrow and short leaves, and yellowing starting from the leaf tips, gradually spreading upward. To address this issue at the seedling stage, farmers can apply 7–8 kg of urea per acre, or 20–25 kg of ammonium bicarbonate, or 600–700 kg of human manure through furrows or irrigation. In later stages, a 2% urea solution can be sprayed on the leaves for effective absorption.
Phosphorus-deficient wheat shows poor root development, weak secondary roots, and delayed growth during the jointing stage, resulting in "chicken-like" plants. The leaves appear dark green with a purple tint, especially at the tips and sheaths, and the plant’s cold resistance decreases. Delayed heading, reduced grain filling, and lower 1000-grain weight are also common. At the seedling stage, applying 20–30 kg of calcium superphosphate per acre or 150–200 g of potassium dihydrogen phosphate mixed with 75 kg of water can help. Later, foliar sprays of 2–3% superphosphate leaching solution or 0.2–0.3% potassium dihydrogen phosphate are recommended.
Potassium deficiency causes slow growth, weak roots, short stems, and dark green or bluish-green leaves with yellowing at the edges and tips. Severe cases result in wilting, premature aging, small ears, and poor grain quality. During the seedling stage, 15 kg of potassium sulfate or 100 kg of wood ash can be applied between rows. In later growth stages, spraying with 1–2% potassium sulfate solution, 0.2–0.3% potassium dihydrogen phosphate, or 5–10% wood ash leachate is effective.
Proper nutrient management ensures optimal wheat growth and yield. Regular monitoring and timely application of fertilizers are key to preventing deficiencies and maintaining plant health. Farmers should tailor their fertilizer strategies based on soil tests and crop needs to achieve the best results.
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