Iron deficiency

Constraint – Iron 

Plant use

• Iron is a micronutrient 

• Iron is associated with the production of chlorophyll and helps to carry oxygen

• Iron is also involved in reactions that convert nitrates to ammonia 

Symptoms 

• Youngest leaves affected first

• Chlorosis of leaves, with tips and margins yellowing last

• Affected leaves curve upwards

• Stunting and abnormal growth also occurs

Damage

Yield penalties can occur if left untreated

Management

A soil test or a plant tissue test should be used to confirm iron deficiency. Managing soil pH so that pH is below 7 will increase the pool of available iron in the soil.

Links and Resources

DAFWA - Iron deficiency General information on iron, what to look for in the paddock and the plant, what else it could be, where it occcurs, treatment, and monitoring.

DEPI VIC - What nutrients do plants require? Iron 6.4.5. Plant uses, deficiency symptoms, and soils at risk of iron deficiency. Page last updated 2013.