Impact of zinc fertilization on growth, yield and quality of zero till wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Abstract

Aim: To determine the impact of soil and foliar application of ZnSO.7H O at late stages of wheat as heading initiation (5% ear formation), 100% heading 4 2 (complete ear formation) and heading initiation and 100% heading along with recommended dose of fertilizer on growth, yield and quality of zero till wheat. Methodology: The field experiment was conducted on zero till wheat. The treatments consisted of control (no Zn), soil application of 12.5, 25, 37.5, 50 kg ha-1 ZnSO.7H O and foliar application of 0.5% Zn as one 4 2 spray at heading initiation (5% ear formation), one spray at 100% heading (complete ear formation) and two sprays at heading initiation and 100% heading with recommended dose of fertilizer. These treatments were evaluated in RBD with three replications. Results: Soil application of 50, 37.5 and 25 kg Zn ha-1 with two foliar sprays of 0.5% at heading initiation (5% ear formation) and 100% heading (complete ear formation) stages gave significantly higher average grain and straw yield and Zn concentration in grain than other treatments, including control. Interpretation: Enhanced application of Zn as soil and foliar application ameliorates soil Zn deficiency and increases protein content in grains, which might influence the quality and yield of zero tilled wheat.