Influence of sulphur and zinc on production of sesame: A review

Abstract

Sesame (Sesamum indicum) is an important oil seed crop cultivated across world for its high -quality and nutritious seed. But the main constraints for production of this crop is soil deficiency of macro and micro nutrients. Sulphur (S) and zinc (Zn) are the elements which play crucial role in sesame crop production. Their impact can be directly seen through growth and development, seed yield, stalk yield, oil content, protein content, carbohydrate content, nutrient uptake and dry matter accumulation. Reduction of resistance against disease and pest, reduction in firmness against drought and frost condition, less chlorophyll formation, lowering in oil and protein content in seed and lowering in nitrogen metabolism are key symptoms of Sulphur deficiency. Symptoms of zinc deficiency mainly include growth and yield reduction, delay in seed maturation, production of low conc. of phytohormones, reduced cell division and production of malformed fruit in severe deficiency condition etc. The strategies behind eradication of S and Zn deficiency and its management may lead to an era of sustainable sesame production and its application in future agricultural production system.