The following microelements have the greatest influence on the yield and efficiency of growing corn: magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu) and iron (Fe).

The role of microelements in the corn development

Let us consider the most important microelements for corn and their influence on the crop development.

Magnesium is an integral part of chlorophyll, it participates in the synthesis of proteins and amino acids. Low magnesium content in the corn negatively affects the processes of flowering and pollination. And, therefore, it prevents the cob formation and reduces the amount on the cobs. The approximate rate of magnesium microfertilizers to be supplied ranges from 40 to 60 kg/ha MgO.

Zinc enhances the crop resistance against the adverse weather (especially frost), it takes part in the synthesis of chlorophyll and В, Р, С vitamins. It is recommended to apply the zinc microfertilizers to the soil in amount of 1-2 kg of active substance per 1 ha or using the leaf fertilization. Although such a way of supply will only effect in the early stages and until the deficiency is detected.

Copper is an activator of oxidation-deoxidation processes. It positively influences on the content of protein and sugar in the grain, the formation of lignin in the cell walls, promotes more active grain formation.

Manganese is one of the key elements of photosynthesis and activator of enzymatic processes. It plays an important role in the nitrate recovery and the protein synthesis.

Iron is engaged in the protein synthesis, the chlorophyll formation and the photosynthesis.

Symptoms of micronutrient shortage

To ensure healthy development of corn, it is required to identify timely the lack of a microelement and ensure it with relevant microfertilizers.

Symptoms of micronutrient deficiency:

• magnesium - uneven yellow colouring between the veins on old leaves, red or brown leaves, dead leaves.
• iron - chlorosis of young leaves between veins, crop reduction.
• manganese - pale yellow colour of leaves, chlorosis between the leaf veins, necrosis on the tips and wavy form of leaves.
• copper - pale colour, dry leaf margins, plant growth inhibition, noticeable inclination of the tops of young leaves.
• zinc - pale yellow stripes on young leaves, and in case of a strong shortage - the appearance of red colour, low amount of grain on the corn cobs.

Microfertilizers should be used to avoid micronutrient deficiencies. “Agromix” company offers agrarians a wide range of quality mineral fertilizers for various crop types.

To ensure the healthy growth and high productivity, corn, in addition to the main macroelements, requires a number of other minerals. Small amounts of them are required, but this in no way diminishes their importance for crop development and productivity formation.

The following microelements have the greatest influence on the yield and efficiency of growing corn: magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu) and iron (Fe).