PAID ACCESS | Published on : 06-Jan-2026 | Pages: 41-57 | Doi : 10.37446/edibook222025 /41-57
Micronutrients, which are vital for plant growth and health, need to be supplied in trace quantities, and deficiency can impact significantly on crop yield and quality. This chapter describes the chemistry of essential micronutrients - iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), boron (B), molybdenum (Mo), chlorine (Cl), and nickel (Ni) - in terms of their necessity, functions, source, and forms present in the soil. It describes the dynamic soil processes like oxidation-reduction reactions, precipitation-dissolution equilibria, and adsorption-desorption along with soil properties like pH, redox potential, cation exchange capacity, and organic carbon, regarding the solubility and accessibility of micronutrients. Emphasis is also given on the practical management of micronutrients regarding application protocols for both soil and foliar applications. This includes selecting the source, determining the recommended amount, and detecting the symptoms of toxicity and deficiency of several micronutrients in plants. This chapter will be an essential resource for researchers and decision-makers seeking to enhance the advantages of micronutrients in fostering soil fertility and agricultural sustainability.
Micronutrients chemistry, soil properties, deficiency, toxicity, nutrient management
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