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To overcome the micronutrient deficiencies of the spice crops, the Institute developed crop-specific designer micronutrient foliar formulations
The ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode, Kerala has recently received the Patent for the Micronutrient Formulation for Black Pepper.
To overcome the micronutrient deficiencies and meet the physiological and metabolic requirements of the spice crops, the Institute developed crop-specific designer micronutrient foliar formulations for the major spices (Black Pepper, Ginger, Turmeric, Cardamom). It also successfully field-tested and commercialized the crop-specific micronutrient formulations for the major spices.
The Institute’s Ginger and Turmeric Formulations have already received the Patents. The technology has been developed by the team including Dr V Srinivasan, Dr R Dinesh and Dr S Hamza.
The micronutrient mixture for Black Pepper has been designed to fulfill the Black Pepper Crop’s requirement by maintaining the optimal leaf nutrient ratio of secondary and micronutrients (especially, Mg, Zn and B) in the leaf. The crop-specific Micronutrient Formulation is recommended for Black Pepper as a foliar spray (2 to 3 foliar sprays @ 5g per litre water) during spike initiation with the onset of monsoon and at monthly intervals afterward.
The Black Pepper Micronutrient Mixture’s application enhances the quality of the produce, while contributing to the health of the vines through balanced nutrition. Over the years, the technology has reached the farmers in about 8 per cent to 10 per cent of the cropped area. It increases the yield by 10 per cent to 25 per cent and improves the health and vigor of vines. It is water-soluble and compatible with common straight or complex fertilizers and increases bulk density of the produce.
The technology has been licensed to seven entrepreneurs on a non-exclusive basis for commercial production.