Not all crop problems are caused by pathogens. Physiological and nutrient-related disorders arise due to imbalances in water, nutrients, or environmental conditions, often leading to stunted growth, poor yield, and reduced crop quality. Understanding these disorders is key to maintaining healthy, productive crops.
1. Common Physiological and Nutrient Disorders
- Leaf Chlorosis – Yellowing of leaves due to nitrogen or iron deficiency.
- Blossom End Rot – Calcium deficiency causing fruit decay in tomatoes, peppers, and melons.
- Stunted Growth – General nutrient deficiency or water stress.
- Tip Burn – Calcium deficiency in leafy vegetables like lettuce and cabbage.
- Fruit Malformation – Inadequate boron or zinc affecting fruit set and quality.
- Interveinal Yellowing – Magnesium deficiency causing yellow patterns between leaf veins.
2. Causes of Physiological Disorders
- Nutrient Imbalance – Deficiency or excess of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, or micronutrients.
- Water Stress – Over-irrigation or drought affecting plant metabolism.
- Soil pH Issues – Acidic or alkaline soils reduce nutrient availability.
- Temperature Extremes – Heat or cold stress causing physiological damage.
- Poor Soil Structure – Compacted or poorly aerated soils limit root uptake.
3. Symptoms to Identify Disorders
- Yellowing, browning, or scorching of leaves
- Stunted or abnormal growth patterns
- Poor flowering, fruit set, or malformed fruits
- Wilting or leaf tip burns despite adequate water
- Reduced yield and poor crop quality
Early recognition allows timely interventions, preventing major losses.
4. Prevention and Management Strategies
- Soil Testing and Fertilization – Apply the right nutrients in correct proportions based on soil health.
- Balanced Irrigation – Maintain optimal moisture using drip or sprinkler systems.
- pH Management – Amend acidic or alkaline soils to improve nutrient availability.
- Resistant or Adapted Varieties – Grow crops suited to local climatic conditions.
- Organic Soil Amendments – Use compost and bio-fertilizers to enhance soil fertility and structure.
5. Krikso India Support for Nutrient and Physiological Management
- Soil Testing Kits – Analyze nutrient levels and deficiencies.
- Organic Fertilizers and Micronutrient Solutions – Provide balanced nutrition for crops.
- Technical Advisory Services – Expert guidance on soil health, irrigation, and nutrient management.
- Integrated Crop Solutions – Help farmers maximize yield and quality while preventing physiological disorders.
