Diagnosing manganese deficiency in canola

Canola is less susceptible to manganese deficiency than cereals but it has been seen more in recently heavily limed soils.

Younger leaves develop interveinal paleness/yellowing, but veins remain green
Plants may have leaf symptoms without affecting yield

What to look for

    Paddock

  • Pale plants with interveinal paleness that is seen on newly limed areas.

    Plant

  • The whole plant becomes paler.
  • Younger leaves develop interveinal paleness to yellowing, but veins remain green

Where does it occur?

  • As canola has an extensive network of fine feeder roots that can secrete organic acids that enhance nutrient uptake, deficiency is not common.
  • Heavy lime applications can induce deficiency in the year of application.

How can it be monitored?

  • There is no reliable soil test for manganese. Soil test manganese is generally poorly related to grain yield increase so that critical concentrations can't be determined.

Further information

Where to go for expert help

Page last updated: Wednesday, 6 May 2015 - 11:34am