Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate 33% Fertilizer Uses

Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate (Zinc 33% + Sulphur 15%) is a straight micronutrient fertilizer registered under the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985 (FCO). It is a soil- and foliar-applied source of zinc, one of the most common micronutrient deficiencies in Punjab's rice-wheat cropping system, along with a secondary supply of sulphur. This page lists crop-wise deficiency symptoms and application rates based on Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) package-of-practices guidance and the product's own FCO label directions, since fertilizers are governed by the FCO rather than the Central Insecticides Board (CIB).

Which Growth Problem Is This For?

Zinc deficiency is widespread in the alkaline and heavily-cropped soils common across Punjab's rice-wheat belt. The table below lists the crops and deficiency symptoms this fertilizer is generally used to correct.

Nutrient Role

Zinc is an essential micronutrient that functions as a structural or catalytic cofactor for a wide range of plant enzymes. It plays a central role in carbohydrate metabolism (including photosynthesis and the conversion of sugars to starch), protein synthesis, and the production of auxin, the plant hormone that drives cell elongation and overall growth. Zinc also helps maintain the integrity of cell membranes and supports pollen formation and fertility. Alongside zinc, this fertilizer supplies 15% sulphur, a secondary nutrient needed for amino acid and protein synthesis, chlorophyll formation and oil content in oilseed crops. Because zinc becomes less available to plants in alkaline, calcareous or heavily-cultivated soils, targeted zinc sulphate application is one of the most effective ways to correct visible deficiency symptoms.

Features & Benefits

• Corrects zinc deficiency responsible for khaira disease in paddy and chlorosis/stunting in wheat, citrus and other crops.
• Activates enzymes that govern photosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism and overall growth.
• Supports auxin (natural growth hormone) production and protein synthesis for healthier plant development.
• Supplies 15% sulphur alongside zinc, aiding protein and oil synthesis in the crop.
• Helps maintain cell membrane integrity, supporting the plant's natural tolerance to certain stresses.
• Flexible use — can be applied as a basal soil treatment before sowing/transplanting or as a foliar correction spray on a standing crop.

Recommended Usage of Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate 33%

The table below gives commonly followed crop-wise application rates, drawn from PAU package-of-practices guidance for zinc-deficient soils in Punjab and the product's own FCO label directions.

Basal soil-application rates for paddy, wheat and general field/vegetable crops follow PAU package-of-practices guidance for zinc-deficient soils in Punjab; the paddy foliar correction rate for standing khaira-affected crop is a commonly followed agricultural-extension recommendation. The general and citrus foliar spray rates are as stated on the product's own FCO label. Actual need depends on your field's soil-test zinc status — apply basal doses on confirmed-deficient soils rather than as a routine yearly practice, and always confirm current recommendations with your local PAU Krishi Vigyan Kendra.

How to Use

1. Confirm zinc deficiency before use — look for khaira symptoms in paddy or chlorosis/stunting in other crops, and where possible confirm with a soil test.
2. For soil (basal) treatment, thoroughly mix the required quantity of Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate with dry sand to get an even, easy-to-broadcast mixture, and apply before last ploughing, puddling or transplanting.
3. For foliar correction, dissolve the required quantity completely in the specified quantity of water and spray using a knapsack or power sprayer fitted with a fine nozzle for uniform leaf coverage.
4. Spray during the cooler part of the day (early morning or evening) to reduce evaporation and the risk of leaf scorch.
5. Avoid tank-mixing zinc sulphate directly with alkaline fertilizers or pesticides, as this can reduce zinc availability — keep applications separate unless compatibility is confirmed.
6. Repeat foliar sprays at the intervals given above only if deficiency symptoms persist, and avoid repeated heavy basal doses on soils that are not zinc-deficient.

Precautions & Safety

• Wear gloves and a mask while handling, mixing and applying, as a routine precaution for any fertilizer input.
• Avoid foliar spraying during peak heat or bright sunshine, as this increases the risk of leaf scorch.
• Do not mix directly with alkaline pesticides, lime or phosphatic fertilizers unless compatibility is confirmed, since this can reduce zinc solubility and effectiveness.
• Base repeated or heavy applications on a soil test wherever possible — excess zinc accumulation over time can become detrimental to soil and crop health.
• Store in the original, tightly closed pack in a cool, dry place away from moisture, and out of reach of children and livestock.
• Wash hands, face and any exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after handling or spraying.

This page is for general information only and is based on Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) package-of-practices guidance and the product's own FCO 1985 label directions — always consult your local agricultural extension office (PAU Krishi Vigyan Kendra) and confirm current recommendations, including a soil test where possible, before use.