Improved productivity and zinc content for maize grain by different zinc fertilization techniques in calcareous soils

Sarwar, S.; Rafique, E.; Gill, S Maqsood; Khan, M Zameer

Improved productivity and zinc content for maize grain by different zinc fertilization techniques in calcareous soils

2017

Sarwar, S. | Rafique, E. | Gill, S Maqsood | Khan, M Zameer

Scientific management of nutrients along with several other crop management practices are required for sustainable production of maize (Zea mays L.). Zinc (Zn) status of maize grown in Potohar plateau, Pakistan was monitored. A two-year field study was conducted at two sites to assess the yield of maize cultivars, i.e., hybrid (cv. NARC-2704) and local (cv. Agaiti-2002) and Zn requirement of leaves and grain using various Zn application methods. Zinc was applied by three ways, i.e., broadcast and band placement each at 3, 6 and 9 kg Zn ha ⁻¹; and foliar at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 kg Zn ha ⁻¹ along with recommended basal fertilization. Cultivars' response varied to Zn rates, application techniques and sites. The maximum increase in grain yield (two-year mean) at NARC site was: broadcast – hybrid, 17% and local, 13%; band placement – hybrid, 18% and local, 16%; and foliar – hybrid, 15% and local, 13%. Corresponding response at Pindi Gheb site was: broadcast – hybrid, 20% and local, 16%; band placement – hybrid, 21% and local, 17%; and foliar – hybrid, 17% and local, 15%. Zn concentration in leaves and grain of both cultivars also increased to varying extent as a result of applied Zn rates and techniques. Fertilizer Zn requirement for near-maximum grain yield (kg ha ⁻¹) was: broadcast – hybrid, 4.6 and local, 1.9; band placement – hybrid, 1.8 and local, 1.5; and foliar – hybrid, 0.28 and local, 0.26.

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