Lee Menhenett – IPF Technical Agronomist

Zinc (Zn) is an important micronutrient in plant, animal and human nutrition. It can occur on a wide range of soil types varying from acid sands to alkaline clay soils. 
Whilst soil testing can measure available zinc levels, leaf tissue testing provides a more detailed analysis of what’s available within the plant itself and can be taken up by the plant. Diagnosing plant deficiencies on visual symptoms only can be difficult. Therefore, a sound soil testing program, and importantly for trace elements like zinc, coupled with specific plant species leaf tissue sampling, is critical to determine nutrient sufficiency.

Figure 1: Zinc levels from temperate pasture tissue samples received by the Nutrient Advantage Laboratory between 2019 and 2024.


Bringing zinc levels back into balance can be done in several ways – by single application of the element itself, or by mixing with other liquid or coated fertilisers. Zinc application rates are 1-2 kg Zn/ha and can be applied as little as once every 5-10 years. Regular leaf tissue sampling is the best monitoring tool.

As with copper deficiency, zinc is one of the “sleeper” deficiencies in Australian crops that can have negative impact on plant growth and animal health. Regular leaf tissue testing at this time of the season can provide significant insights and improvement opportunities for your crops.

For personalised advice on zinc management and leaf tissue testing, contact your local IPF agronomist.  

Regular testing and targeted nutrient applications are essential steps toward ensuring the long-term health and productivity of your clover pastures. 

Further information 

For further information, please contact Lee Menhenett at lee.menhenett@incitecpivot.com.au or 0412 565 176.