Abstract
Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important crop used for feeding humans and cattle globally. Deficiency of potassium (K) and zinc (Zn) adversely impacts the maize crop productivity and quality. However, the application of these nutrients shows variant responses in different maize cultivars. To understand this perspective, the current study aimed at investigating K and Zn’s optimal concentration in different hybrid and inbred maize cultivars. The treatments were based on three zinc levels (0, 6, and 12 mg Zn kg−1) and K levels (0, 30, and 60 mg kg−1), and their respective combinations. The experiment results showed that combined fertilization approaches of Zn and K (Zn12K60) improved the plant biometric, and physiological attributes of maize crop. The results revealed a significant increase in plant height (45%), fresh weight (70%), and dry weight (45%). Similarly, physiological attributes significantly improved the relative water content (76.4%), membrane stability index (77.9%), chlorophyll contents (170%), and photosynthetic rate (130%) in both inbred and hybrid genotypes. Furthermore, Zn and K (Zn12K60) increased transpiration rate (E), stomatal conductance (Ci), and internal CO2. In conclusion, maize hybrids (Neelam and DK-6142) were observed best compared with inbred (Afghoi and P-1543) cultivars with the combined application of Zn and K (Zn12K60). Thus, these inbred varieties should be preferred for fodder requirement with optimum fertilizer (Zn12K60) application in Zn deficient soils.
Highlights
IntroductionZea mays L. is considered an important crop worldwide for feeding animals and humans
Introduction published maps and institutional affilZea mays L. is considered an important crop worldwide for feeding animals and humans
The increase in biometric characteristics of maize crop was due to the involvement of Zn and K in different physiological processes of the plant such as stomatal regulation, activation of the enzyme, chlorophyll synthesis, cell osmosis, and an increase in water adsorption [5,11,20] that are involved in promoting the plant growth and development
Summary
Zea mays L. is considered an important crop worldwide for feeding animals and humans. In Pakistan, it is the third major cereal crop after wheat and rice. Maize belongs to the family Poaceae, and is considered a major stable crop due to its high human consumption, livestock feeding, and industrial usage. During 2020–2021, maize production increased approximately 7.4% due to the rise in areas under maize cultivation in Pakistan [1,2]. The consumption of maize is not limited to humans but is used as bioenergy and fodder for livestock [3]. Important constituents of maize fodder that makes it a good diet for animals includes protein contents, crude fiber contents, ash contents, soluble carbohydrates, and K and Zn contents [4]
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