Abstract
The optimization of nutrient management in high-density apple orchards is crucial for improving growth and yield, especially in regions where micronutrient deficiencies can limit productivity. Zinc (Zn) is a vital micronutrient that plays a significant role in various physiological processes in apple trees, yet its availability is often limited in soils. A two-year (2022–2023) field experiment was conducted in the mid hill (1181 m above mean sea level), sub-humid agro-climatic zone of Himachal Pradesh, to investigate the impact of zinc foliar application by assessing the influence of different sources (nano, chelated, and sulfate) and doses (single and double spray) on leaf nutrient concentrations, yield, and agronomic Zn use efficiency in high-density apple plantations (Var. Red Velox). The results indicated a significant impact of zinc sources on leaf nutrient concentrations, with increases observed in nitrogen, potassium, zinc, iron, and manganese levels. The study found that application of Zn decreased fruit drop by 16.8 to 29.8 % and increased yield by 6.9 to 10.9 % compared to control. The study revealed that a single spray of nZn (nano Zn), applied one month after full bloom, can achieve yields (77.6 Mg ha-1) on par with double sprays of nZn (78.3 Mg ha-1), both significantly higher than other sources, with the single spray showing 1.72 and 1.86 times greater efficiency in 2022 and 2023, respectively compared to the double spray. Application of nZn also increased fruit Zn concentration (16 mg kg-1) significantly compared to other sources indicating its potential for Zn bio-fortification.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call