Phosphorus-copper interactions in the incidence of chlorosis in garden peas (Pisum sativum L.) on calcareous soil

Abstract

Results of a field trial designed to study the effects of soil-applied phosphorus and copper on the incidence of iron chlorosis in garden peas showed that there were significant reductions in chlorophyll content and peroxidase activity in leaves of plants treated with phosphorus and copper. However, foliar spray of Fe-EDDHA, a stable iron chelate, had no effects on these parameters. Green pod yield of peas was also found significantly reduced with phosphorus and copper applications. But Fe-EDDHA caused significant increase in pod yield. It is suggested that excess of P and Cu in leaves interfere with metabolic translocation of iron and render Fe inactive for chlorophyll synthesis.