Nutrient deficiency in black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) - calcium, magnesium and sulphur

Abstract

Studies conducted to induce deficiency symptoms of Ca, Mg and S in pepper revealed that the deficiency symptoms were first manifested on the younger leaves except in the case of Mg. Calcium deficiency symptoms appeared as tiny brown necrotic spots on chlorotic area near margins which later enlarged to form black necrotic areas. Visible symptom of Mg deficiency was oval interveinal chlorotic area followed by black necrotic patches. Sulphur deficiency was manifested as uniform yellowing with brown necrotic spots. The reduction in shoot growth and leaf area index was maximum in the case of deficiency of S (48% and 17%) whereas the effect of Ca and Mg deficiency on vegetative growth was comparatively low. However, the deficiency of Ca resulted in a marked reduction in root growth which extended upto 61 per cent. The growth of the vine was completely arrested at a very early stage of 4.5 months after treatment due to S deficiency whereas no cessation of growth occurred in the case of deficiencies of Ca and Mg. Concurrent with the manifestation of deficiency symptoms, there was a reduction in the foliar levels of the concerned elements. Initial symptoms of deficiency were manifested when the foliar level was reduced to 1.51 per cent in the case of Ca, 0.913 per cent in Mg and 0.121 percent in S. Antagonistic effects among K, Ca and Mg were also observed. The deficiency symptoms could be recovered by the application of the nutrient element which was deficient.