Yellowing of Wheat Leaves? Causes and Effective Remedies for Immediate Action

Krishi Dunia

• 03 Dec, 2025 01:25 PM IST ,
• Updated Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:24 PM

During the Rabi season, major crops like wheat and chickpea are currently at the 20–25 day growth stage. Farmers are applying first irrigation along with urea in wheat fields, while initial irrigation is also being carried out for chickpeas. At this stage, farmers often notice yellowing in wheat and wilting in chickpeas, which can adversely affect yields. Agricultural experts have issued detailed guidance to tackle these issues effectively.

Why Wheat Leaves Turn Yellow

Yellowing in wheat is primarily caused by nitrogen deficiency. Key symptoms include:

• Older leaves turning yellow quickly
• Yellowing spreading from lower leaves to the top
• Stunted plant growth

Other contributing factors include iron deficiency, zinc deficiency, waterlogging, and fluctuating temperatures.

Remedies for Yellowing Wheat Leaves

1. Address Nitrogen Deficiency

• Apply 40–50 kg urea per acre as top dressing
• Alternatively, spray 2% NPK solution (19:19:19 or 12:32:16) — 2 kg per 100 liters of water

2. Correct Iron Deficiency

• Spray 0.5% Ferrous Sulfate (FeSO₄)
• Add 0.1% citric acid or lemon juice to improve absorption

3. Correct Zinc Deficiency

• Apply Zinc Sulfate 21% (25 kg/acre) at sowing

4. Prevent Waterlogging

• Ensure proper field drainage
• Avoid excessive irrigation

Additional Tips to Boost Wheat Nutrition

• Use 10:26:26 or 12:32:16 instead of DAP in the next fertilizer application
• Incorporate organic manure like vermicompost or cow dung to improve soil fertility

Wilt Disease in Chickpeas (Ukhtha/Wilt Disease)

The primary cause of wilting in chickpeas is Ukhtha or wilt disease, which spreads rapidly due to infected soil, contaminated seeds, and irregular irrigation.

Key Symptoms of Wilt Disease

• Sudden drooping of plants
• Red or black streaks near the roots
• Gradual drying and death of plants

Remedies for Wilt Disease in Chickpeas

1. Fungicide Spray

• Mix 1 g Carbendazim per liter of water and spray on affected plants

2. Alternative Method

• Mix 500 g Carbendazim in 2–3 kg sand and broadcast per acre
• This reduces disease impact and helps save the crop

Termite Control in Rabi Crops

According to Dr. Rajendra Singh Chhokar, ICAR, termites attack young plants and can destroy them entirely, causing uprooting.

Control Measures:

• Mix 2 liters Chlorpyriphos 10 EC in 20 kg soil and broadcast in the field
• Irrigate immediately after application

This method is considered highly effective for termite control.

Conclusion

Wheat and chickpea crops are at a sensitive growth stage during the Rabi season. Timely intervention for yellowing, nutrient deficiencies, and pest/disease management can increase yields by 20–30%. By following these expert recommendations, farmers can ensure healthy crops and higher production.