Send Message

Micronutrients: Hidden Drivers of Quality and Quantity in Plantation Crops

Micronutrients are essential for optimal growth and productivity in plantation crops such as tea, coffee, rubber and coconut. These elements, including zinc, iron, manganese, copper, boron and molybdenum, serve as cofactors in enzymatic reactions and play critical roles in photosynthesis, nutrient assimilation and stress response mechanisms. Deficiencies disrupt metabolic pathways, leading to physiological disorders that compromise yield and crop quality. Scientific studies demonstrate that targeted micronutrient management-through soil amendments, foliar applications and precision fertilization, can significantly enhance nutrient use efficiency. Research indicates that optimized micronutrient regimens increase productivity by 15-30% while reducing environmental impacts associated with conventional fertilization. This synthesis highlights the importance of evidence-based micronutrient strategies to address the unique nutritional demands of perennial cropping systems under changing climatic conditions.