Summary
This field trial, conducted across two Malawian research stations with contrasting soil types, evaluated the residual effects of soil-applied zinc on maize productivity and grain zinc biofortification. The study found that application of 30 kg Zn ha⁻¹ in the previous season significantly increased second-season maize grain yield by 24.6%, grain zinc concentration by 12.5%, and zinc uptake by 29.6%, compared to the national recommendation of 1 kg Zn ha⁻¹. Higher application rates of 90 kg Zn ha⁻¹ provided no additional benefit, suggesting that optimised zinc fertilisation protocols could enhance biofortification programmes sustainably.
UK applicability
Whilst the findings are specific to Malawian soil types and agronomic conditions, the principle of optimising zinc fertilisation rates for both productivity and nutritional quality may be relevant to UK cereal production where zinc deficiency can limit yield and grain quality. However, direct application would require validation in UK soil conditions and consideration of existing UK fertiliser recommendations and environmental regulations.
Key measures
Maize grain yield (% increase), grain zinc concentration (% increase), zinc uptake (% increase), zinc fertiliser application rates (kg Zn ha⁻¹), soil type comparisons (Lixisols vs Vertisols)
Outcomes reported
The study measured maize grain yield, grain zinc concentration, and zinc uptake in the second season following soil-applied zinc fertiliser application in the previous season across two contrasting soil types. Residual zinc benefits were evaluated at rates of 1, 30, and 90 kg Zn ha⁻¹ applied as zinc sulphate heptahydrate.
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