Effect of the type of preparation and spraying parameters on zinc deposition on soybean plants

Abstract

The aim of the research was to determine deposition of zinc on soybean plants sprayed in three development phases: 2, 4 and 6 specific leaves. The spraying involved the following parameters: speed was 0.86 m s−1, pressure: 0.20 and 0.28 MPa, standard nozzles: flat fan XR 110-02 and double flat fan DF 120-02. Soybean plants of Pollux variety were sprayed, with foliar fertilizer Mikrovit Zinc 112 and the preparation containing zinc nanoparticles. The dose of both preparations amounted 160 g Zn ha−1. After spraying, the plants were cut, dried, and mineralized. Zinc content in the samples was measured with atomic absorption spectrometer. The highest values of zinc deposition soybean plants were recorded DF 120-02 nozzle, regardless the spraying parameters, as well as soy development phase. The use of nanozinc and DF 120-02 nozzle in 4 leaves development phase caused higher values of zinc deposition 12.5% (0.20 MPa) and 15% (0.28 MPa), while in 6 leaves phase, the mentioned values increased by 13% (0.20 MPa) and 3.6% (0.28 MPa), as compared to the ones obtained for the foliar fertilizer. The highest values of nanozinc deposition using DF 120-02 nozzles were recorded at 0.20 MPa pressure: 179.1 mg kg−1 (2 leaves phase) and 178.0 mg kg−1 (6 leaves phase), as well as at 0.28 MPa pressure: 127.7 mg kg−1(4 leaves phase). In comparison with flat fan nozzle XR 110-02, the use of double flat fan nozzle DF 120-02 increased zinc deposition by 151, 110, and 90%, respectively. Statistical analysis of the test results showed a significant effect of the type of nozzle used for spraying on the value of zinc deposition on soybean plants.