Effects of the deficiencies of boron, copper and zinc in two soybean varieties (Santa Rosa and UFV-1) grown in nutrient solution

Abstract

Two soybean varieties were grown in nutrient solution either in the presence on in the absence of B, Cu and Zn. Symptoms of deficiency were observed. Dry matter production and yield data were recorded. Leaf analyses were made in the end of the pod filling period (except in the case of the minus B treatment in which plants failed to produce grains). Main conclusions were the following: (1) lack of B in the substrate affected dry matter production more than the deficiencies of Cu and Zn; (2) Cu deficiency reduced growth and yield formation more than the lack of Zn; (3) symtoms of deficiency are in agreement with those already described; (4) variety UFV-1 seems more sensitive to the deficiency of micronutrients than Santa Rosa; (5) leaf levels of B and Zn indicative of adequate nutritional status seem to be different for the two varieties.