A RESPONSE OF CHLOROTIC CORN PLANTS TO THE APPLICATION OF ZINC SULFATE TO THE SOIL

Abstract

A chlorosis of the corn plant, locally called "white bud," occurs on the frequently cropped soils of Florida. It is characterized in the seedling stage by light yellow streaks between the veins of the leaves, by small chlorophyll-free white areas in the leaves, and by a light yellow to white unfolding bud. In older plants it is manifested by yellow streaks between the veins of the leaves and bronze- to slate-colored distorted older leaves with areas of dead tissue. Corn yields are definitely decreased on severely affected lands. ZnSO4 at the rate of 20 lb. per acre in the row with a mixed inorganic fertilizer (nitrate of soda, superphosphate, and muriate of potash) corrected the chlorotic condition and greatly increased yields in carefully conducted field exps. ZnSO4 in combination with alkaline peat was also effective in controlling the "white bud" condition, as were stable manure, chicken manure, and leaf mold from a mixed hardwood and pine stand.