Evaluation of Maize for Different Methods and Levels of Zinc Application

Authors

  • R. G. Ladumor Department of Agronomy,Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, INDIA
  • Nitin N. Gudadhe Department of Agronomy,Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, INDIA
  • Santosh Onte Department of Agronomy,Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, INDIA
  • A. V. Narwade Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, INDIA
  • Nilima Karmakar Department of Soil Science and Agril. Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, INDIA
  • J. D. Thanki Department of Agronomy,Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, INDIA

Keywords:

mays L., Zinc, seed priming, seed treatment, foliar application, soil application

Abstract

The different methods of zinc (Zn) application with various doses were studied in maize (Zea mays L.).The methods
adopted namely, seed priming (1, 2 and 3%), seed treatment (2, 4 and 6 g kg-1 seed), soil application (4, 6 and 8
kg ha-1) and foliar application (0.25, 0.50 and 0.75%) with three levels of each. Foliar application of Zn at 0.75%
has exhibited phytotoxicity initially but later the phytotoxicity disappeared after 8-10 days. Irrespective of the
Zn application method and level growth, yield, Zn content and quality of maize was significantly enhanced over
absolute control. Seed treatment was found to be the cheapest Zn application method. Seed treatment of Zn
at 4 g kg-1produced highest maize grain yield, net returns, and the maize grains were enriched with Zn and were
suitable for human consumption as a biofortified Zn source. Maximum residual elemental Zn in soil was found due
to foliar application of Zn at 0.75%. However, seed treatment of Zn at 4 g kg-1resulted suitable for an eco-friendly
and sustainable method of Zn application for agronomic packages and practices.

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Published

2020-03-31

Issue

Vol. 64 No. 3 (2019)

Section

Articles

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