The cause of zinc deficiency in the soil-plant system

Abstract

Among trace elements zinc is essential for optimal physiological processes of living beings. Yet, in recent decades, the deficiency of this element is a major problem in crop areas. The absolute and relative zinc deficiency is true for many types of soil in the Carpathian Basin, influencing yields, the crop quality and, as a result, the economic efficiency. The great number of publication in English language also prove the importance of this element. There is an urgent need for a summary of these publications in Hungarian language. By the review of 102 articles on technical literature, the present study describes the physical and chemical properties of this element, its biological role, its forms of existing in the soil, its mobility, the fertilization possibilities and the possibilities of controlling and compensation.