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Zinc    Zn   (Target Levels 10 - 15 ppm)

Zinc is a very important micronutrient, which plays an important part in soil fertility. One role is in the creation of over 100 enzymes in plants and over 300 in livestock animals and humans. The involvement of Zinc in so many plant enzymes means that deficiency greatly affects DM (dry matter) production, seed yields, health and strength. It is impossible to avoid 'lodging' (flattening of cereal crops) on Zinc deficient land, particularly when growing long-stemmed varieties of corn, owing to poor cell structure and strength. The other major cause of poor cell strength and integrity is the use of synthetic Nitrogen fertiliser, which weakens the cell wall and causes leakage. The combination of Zinc deficiency and synthetic Nitrogen applications makes the plant much more susceptible to invasion by diseases and this leads to a much greater use of pesticides! Few are aware that crops yields are limited by the amount of available Zinc - in other words, it does not matter how much Nitrogen you use, it will have no effect unless there is sufficient Zinc present. Once replaced, Zinc is highly insoluble and very persistent in soil. Animals cannot store Zinc and therefore need a daily supply. Mineral licks and supplements are better than nothing, but very 'hit and miss' compared to a natural supply from grass, silage and fodder grown on correctly-balanced soil.

Zinc Deficiency in Animals                                                                                                    

• Loss of appetite and thrift
• Retarded growth
• Slow healing
• Poor reproductive performance
• Poor hair/wool growth
• Skin sores
• Join stiffness
• Depressed immune system
• High Orf incidence
• Poor milk production
• Foot rot, scald.

Zinc Deficiency in Plants

• Lodging due to poor cell strength
• Stunted plants
• Pale green interveinal areas on leaves
• Small leaves
• Rosetting
• 'White buds'

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Last modified: June 24, 2003