Comprehensive Study on Foliar Application of Zn (Fortification) on Growth, Yield and Zinc Content in Wheat

Abstract

This experiment was conducted at Latif Agriculture Farm, Tandojam, District Hyderabad during Rabi season
2020-2021 to assessthe effects of zinc applied in the form of foliar on wheat yield and growth characteristics, employing
a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Zinc was sprayed in various concentrations (0, 0.10%, 0.30%, and 0.50%)
on leaves at different growth stages. Results revealed that the foliar zinc application along with NPK recommended
doses significantly raised the plant height (73.46 and 85.63) at 90 days and harvest time on T4 relative to the control
(59.32 and 73.24), respectively. The number of grains per spike showed a consistent rise with increasing zinc application,
with T4 and T3 displaying significantly higher grain numbers (26.89) than the control. The thousand grain weight
significantly increased and the highest was observed at T4 compared to the control and other treatments. Moreover, grain
yield significantly increased in T4, recording the highest yield compared to the control and other treatments. Zinc
concentration in grains displayed a significant rise with increasing zinc application, notably higher in T4 than other
treatments. Zinc application also increased zinc content in wheat straw, with T4 exhibiting the highest (29.55 µg g
-1
)
zinc content compared to the control and other treatments. Overall, the findings demonstrate the positive impact of foliar
application of zinc on various growth stages of wheat, emphasizing its potential in enhancing grain yield and quality. This
study advocates for the implementation of foliar application of zinc strategies to fortify wheat crops, thus contributing
to agricultural practices aimed at increasing productivity and nutrient enrichment.