Summary
A randomised block design field trial conducted in Western Uttar Pradesh assessed ten nutrient treatment combinations applied to rice (PB-1637 variety) grown on clay loam soil deficient in micronutrients. Foliar application of 0.5% zinc and iron sulphates at tillering and panicle initiation stages, combined with 100% NPK, produced the highest nutrient concentration and uptake in grain and improved residual soil fertility compared to NPK-only controls. These findings suggest that targeted micronutrient supplementation, particularly via foliar methods at critical growth stages, can enhance both crop nutrient density and soil nutrient status in alkaline soils of the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
UK applicability
Direct applicability to UK practice is limited, as the study was conducted on alkaline, clay loam soils in a tropical monsoon climate with specific micronutrient deficiencies characteristic of Indian agricultural regions. UK rice cultivation is minimal, and soil chemistry, pH, and baseline fertility differ substantially; however, the methodological approach to evaluating foliar micronutrient application timing and formulation may be relevant for UK cereal systems experiencing trace element deficiencies.
Key measures
Nutrient content in grain (N, P, K, Zn, Fe in mg kg⁻¹ or %); nutrient uptake in grain (kg ha⁻¹ or g ha⁻¹); residual soil nutrient status (N, P, K, organic carbon, Zn, Fe); soil pH and texture
Outcomes reported
The study measured nutrient content and uptake in rice grain (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, iron) and assessed residual soil fertility status under different micronutrient treatment regimes. Foliar and soil applications of zinc and iron sulphates, with and without VAM inoculation, were evaluated for their effects on crop nutrition and post-harvest soil nutrient status.
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