Boron Deficiency in Shade Trees for Tea

Boron deficiency in dadap

The youngest dadap leaves are the first affected when the plant is boron deficient:

• The pinnae are small
• Many segments do not develop, resulting in the formation of a very simple leaf

As the deficiency progresses, the growing points die back followed by the development of many shoots from the main trunk. Bark cracking and gum exudation occur when the deficiency is very advanced.

Necrosis of the cambium has been reported.

Boron deficiency in silver oak

Boron deficiency in silver oak causes dieback and multiple side shoot development. The leaves are blunt, in marked contrast to healthy pointed leaves.