ZINC DEFICIENCY AND ITS MANAGEMENT IN THE EASTERN CAPE SOIL

ABSTRACT

This seminar
looked at zinc deficiency in the Eastern Cape Province where largely rural
small holder farmers are unable to keep up with best management practices to
restore and maintain soil fertility. This is in contrast to the increasing
number of large commercial farms who are able to manage their soil to optimal
level of nutrients. Zinc is an important micronutrient needed for plant growth and
increased yield; whether in grains or root crops. Deficiency symptoms include chlorosis,
reduced fruiting and tuberization. Alkaline soils, higher phosphorus levels, wet
and moist farmlands result in reduced zinc soil availability and uptake by plants.
The agrarian reforms of the Provincial government should include extension services
to educate local farmers of best soil management practices, bring soil testing within
the reach and affordability of rural dwellers, while looking to subsidise inputs
so that small holder farmers would be encouraged to take up these soil management
practices.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title
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Declaration
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Certification
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Dedication
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Acknowledgement