AMELIORATION OF ZINC DEFICIENCY OF CORN IN CALCAREOUS SOILS OF THAILAND: ZINC SOURCES AND APPLICATION METHODS

Author： Takrattanasaran Natta Chanchareonsook Jongruk Johnson Paul G. Thongpae Suthep Sarobol Ed

ISSN： 0190-4167

Source： Journal of Plant Nutrition, Vol.36, Iss.8, 2013-01, pp. : 1275-1286

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Abstract

A variety of zinc (Zn) fertilizer sources are applied with varied responses on calcareous soils in Thailand. Seed treatment is an alternative method to deliver Zn to corn and alleviate Zn deficiency. To address this Zn delivery methods we conducted greenhouse studies on corn grown in three calcareous soils of Thailand to three Zn fertilizer sources [zinc sulfate (ZnSO₄), Zn-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and Zn citrate]. We also evaluated effectiveness of soaking corn seed in three concentrations of ZnSO₄ (0.4, 0.8 and 1.6%) prior to planting compared to soil applied methods. Applications of zinc increased the growth, dry matter yield and zinc uptake of corn with few differences observed among the types of fertilizers. Seed soaking with ZnSO₄ solution also increased Zn uptake, growth rate and yield comparable to soil-applied Zn. Seed soaking prior to planting is an effective and efficient method to supply Zn to corn grown in Zn deficient calcareous soils of Thailand.