Iron (Fe) is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development. Although it is required in small amounts, it plays a key role in fundamental metabolic and physiological processes.
However, its deficiency is one of the most frequent in crops, especially in alkaline or calcareous soils. It is therefore essential to understand its importance, identify deficiency symptoms and implement effective strategies to ensure healthy and productive crops.
The importance of iron in plants
Iron is like the “invisible engine” that drives key processes in plants. It is essential for photosynthesis, as it helps produce chlorophyll, the pigment that turns leaves green and allows them to capture energy from sunlight. Without sufficient iron, plants cannot properly handle this process and their growth is compromised.
In addition, iron is present in the mitochondria, where it helps generate energy through cellular respiration. It is also essential for processing nitrates and sulphates, which are basic for creating amino acids, proteins and other important compounds. It even collaborates in the production of hormones such as auxins, which are necessary for plant growth and development.
Symptoms and consequences of iron deficiency
The first signs of iron deficiency are usually very visual.
Young leaves show a yellowish color between the veins, which remain green. This occurs because iron is not very mobile in the plant, so it cannot move from the older leaves to the new ones when there is a deficiency.
Iron deficiency also causes a general reduction in plant growth, as it affects important processes such as photosynthesis and energy production.
In fruit trees, vegetable crops and extensive farming, iron deficiency can reduce both crop quantity and quality. If not corrected in time, damage can be permanent.
Detecting and addressing this deficiency quickly is critical to avoid major problems in plant development and production.
The solution? Choosing the right iron.
To prevent and correct iron deficiency in crops, it is critical to choose the right form of iron.
Iron chelates are the perfect choice, as they protect iron from being converted into insoluble forms that are unusable by the plant, especially in high pH soils. Chelates such as EDDHA, DTPA or EDDHSA are very effective when applied to the soil, as they keep iron available to the roots even under difficult conditions. For example, Ferrolin EDDHSA is a product known for its high solubility and efficacy, working well in both acidic and alkaline soils.
In cases of severe deficiency, a foliar application of iron can be the quickest solution. When applied directly to the leaves, iron is absorbed immediately, helping the plant to quickly regain its green color. However, for a lasting effect, it is necessary to complement this treatment with root applications. Products such as Heromicro Fe Complex, which combines iron complexed by HGA, are ideal for this type of foliar and root applications, and allow an efficient control of iron chlorosis.
Strategies to maximize iron efficiency
To maximize iron efficiency in crops, it is important to take a holistic approach:
Although small in quantity, iron has a huge impact on crop health. Detecting and correcting its deficiency in time not only improves productivity but also ensures the sustainability of agricultural production.
Products such as Ferrolin EDDHSA for root applications and Heromicro Fe Complex for foliar and root applications are essential allies for efficient and cost-effective iron management.
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