Correction of iron deficiency in peas by foliar sprays

Abstract

A severe iron deficiency in peas grown on grey to black clay loam soil overlying limestone (rendzina) was successfully ameliorated by foliar application of ferrous sulphate. Two applications, three weeks apart, increased the fresh weight of peas harvested by more than 100 per cent (P < 0.001). The two sprays also increased the numbers of pods, dry weight of the pods, fresh weight per pea and maturity of the peas (all P < 0.001), and herbage yield (P < 0.01). One application of iron sulphate was insufficient to arrest completely the symptoms of iron deficiency. The peas did not show vegetative or marsh spot symptoms of manganese deficiency, and there were no significant changes in measurements to manganese sprays.