Nutrient deficiencies in export tree and food crops: literature review and field observations

摘要

This paper reviews nutrient deficiencies in agricultural crops of PNG using the literature of agronomic trials and field observations made throughout the country. Nutrient deficiencies have been investigated systematically since the mid-1950s, but research has mainly focused on export tree crops and relatively little information is available on food crops. Literature analysis and field observations showed consistent trends, with deficiencies of boron and phosphorus in large parts of the PNG highlands. The review has been useful in delineating areas where nutrient deficiencies occur and these findings could be used for planning nutrient management research and extension activities in food crops.