Impact of foliar application of different nano-fertilizers on soil microbial properties and yield of wheat

Abstract

Aim: The present investigation was carried out to study the effect of foliar application nano-fertilizers P, K and Zn on yield, nutrient content and uptake by wheat and soil microbial properties in sub-humid southern plains of Rajasthan. Methodology: The experiment was laid out in triplicate following randomized block design with fifteen treatments comprising foliar application of different doses of Nano P, K and Zn. Results: Foliar application of 1st spray of Nano Zn at 14 days after sowing (DAS) + 2nd spray of Nano Zn at 28 DAS along with 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) significantly (P=0.05) increased yield attributes and nutrient uptake in wheat. The significantly (P=0.05) maximum microbial population (bacteria and fungi) and microbial biomass-C was obtained with 1st spray of Nano P at 14 DAS + 2nd spray of Nano P at 28 DAS along with 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF). Interpretation: Foliar application of nano fertilizers led to significant improvement of crop productivity of wheat in sub-humid southern plain of Rajasthan. Moreover, the foliar application of nano-fertilizers, i.e., Nano P also stimulated microbial growth by providing nutrients and directly increased their population in soil. Key words: Biomass-C, Foliar application, Nano-fertilizers, Soil microbial population, Wheat productivity