Micronutrients in vegetable production; often it's the little things that count. The incidences of mkronutrient deficiencies in crops have increased markedly in recent years due to intensive cropping and climate _ change. The difference between a thriving crop and a struggling crop many times can be explained by the level of micronutrients in the plant. Micronutrients (boron, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum and zinc) are co-factors in numerous physiological processes vital to crop production. Present only as a few parts per million (ppm) in plant tissues, these nutrients can have a huge impact on yield potential. Unlike conventional soil culture, hydroponic culture of greenhouse vegetables is less forgiving and requires intense management. Although present automation systems can minimize fertilization and irrigation labour inputs, continuous monitoring of the system is important.
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