Effect of Bio-phosphate and Chemical Phosphorus Fertilizer Accompanied with Foliar Application of Micronutrients on Yield, Quality and Phosphorus and Zinc Concentration of Maize

Abstract

Field experiment was conducted at Kerman Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Centre (Iran) during 2008-2009 to evaluate the effect of bio-fertilizer, phosphorus and foliar application of micronutrients on dry matter accumulation, yield, and phosphorus and zinc concentration of maize (Zea mays L.). A split plot experiment based on randomized complete blocks design (RCBD) with four replications was followed in the study. The micronutrients foliar application in two levels (foliar application and non foliar application) were the main plots, and four levels of phosphate (T1:0 (no fertilizer), T2:100 kg ha-1 P2O5, T3:100 g bio-phosphate, T4:100 g bio-phosphate with 50 kg ha-1 P2O5) as the sub plots. Results showed that micronutrients foliar application and biological and chemical phosphorus fertilizers had a significant influence on dry matter accumulation. The maximum dry matter accumulation was obtained by applying 50 kg/ha P2O5 plus bio-fertilizer. Grain yield, 1000-seed weight and protein content of grain were significantly affected by micronutrients and phosphorus fertilizers treatments. Micronutrients foliar application and phosphorus fertilizers interaction had no significantly effect on grain yield, 1000-seed weight and grain protein content. Grain phosphorus and zinc concentration where significantly increased by application of micronutrients and phosphorus fertilizers.