Nutrient Uptake Parameters Research Articles

Effect of Integrated nutrient management practices on nutrient uptake, yield and quality of improved black kavuni rice variety (CO57)

The rising demand for high-quality rice and rice products motivates farmers to produce traditional rice varieties. Rice production needs to be substantially increased with suitable nutrient management practices to meet the demand. Hence, the present study was carried out to evaluate the influence of integrated nutrient management practices on nutrient yield and quality of improved black kavuni rice. The research was conducted during the Early kar (April-August 2023) and Late samba (September - January 2023-24) seasons in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications and twelve treatments consisting of N in equivalent basis with organic manure and inorganic fertilizers and one control. Based on an N equivalent basis, the required quantity of inorganic fertilizer, farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost (VC) and poultry manure (PM) were applied to rice. Observations on nutrient uptake, yield and quality were recorded, and the data were analyzed using LSD at a 5% probability level for significance differences. The results revealed that higher nutrient uptake, yield and quality parameters of rice were recorded with 50% recommended dose of nitrogen through inorganic fertilizer + 50% recommended dose of nitrogen through VC + foliar spray of 0.5% ZnSO4 & 1% FeSO4 at tillering, panicle initiation (PI) and flowering stage (T11).

Root morphology parameters and nutrient acquisition capabilities of grafted tomato plants in root-restricted conditions are subject to salinity and rootstock characteristics

ABSTRACT A tomato cultivar ('Izmir F1') grafted onto six commercially available rootstocks ('Arnold', 'Dohkko', 'Emperador', 'He-man', 'Kaiser', and 'Suzuka') together with self-grafted plants of the tomato cultivar (Izmir/Izmir) were included in a pot experiment. Growth, root morphology and nutrient uptake parameters were evaluated under different salinity conditions (0 and 50 mM NaCl). Grafting increases root length, specific root length, and root length ratio, which enhances the capabilities of hetero-grafted plants to exploit a larger volume of soil or otherwise increase root density under root restriction conditions. Since the root traits and nutrient concentrations in hetero-grafted variants were less impacted by a change in the salinity level, the use of specific rootstocks (‘Arnold,’ ‘Dohkko,’ ‘Kaiser’) could contribute to a steadier growth and yield of tomato plants under fluctuating salinity levels in the irrigation water. The hetero-grafted tomato plants (Dohkko/Izmir, Suzuka/Izmir) demonstrated higher Na sequestration/compartmentalization capabilities than the self-grafted (Izmir/Izmir) plants which helps to maintain a more appropriate K+/Na+ ratio. By exhibiting lower translocation indexes of some heavy metals (Al, Ni, Zn, and Cd), appropriate rootstock/scion combinations might be a useful tool for reducing the risk of their accumulation in edible plant organs.

Influence of Various Nitrogen Levels and Herbicides Application on Nutrient Uptake and Quality Parameters of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

The present study determines the Influence of Various Nitrogen Levels and Herbicides Application on Nutrient Uptake and Quality Parameters of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season 2022 and 2023 at Agronomy research farm, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology Kumarganj, Ayodhya Uttar Pradesh, (India), which consisted of three levels of nitrogen 80, 120 and 160 Kg/ha in main plot and five weed management practices Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10 % WP @ 20g a.i/ha (PE) at 0-3 DAT, Bispyribac sodium 10 % SC @ 25g a.i/ha (PoE) at 25 DAT, Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10 % WP @ 20g a.i/ha (PE) at 0-3 DAT fb Bispyribac sodium 10 % SC @ 25g a.i/ha (PoE) at 25 DAT, Weed free and Weedy check in subplot thereby, making fifteen treatment combinations and replicated thrice in split plot design . Results indicated that protein content and protein yield, N, P and K content in grain and straw and their uptake after harvest were maximum recorded with the application of 160 Kg N ha-1 and Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10 % WP @ 20g a.i/ha (PE) at 0-3 DAT fb Bispyribac sodium 10 % SC @ 25g a.i/ha (PoE) at 25 DAT which was comparable to weed free during both the years of investigation on transplanting rice.

Physiological parameters and nutrient uptake in unpuddled machine transplanted rice (Oryza sativa) in combination with alternative wetting and drying

A field study was carried out during rabi (winter) seasons of 2018–19 and 2019–20 at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu to study the effect of four different crop establishment methods, viz. manual transplanting; transplanting of rice seedling in puddled soil using machine; transplanting of rice seedling in non-puddled soil using machine; and direct sowing combined with four different irrigation treatments, viz. farmers practice; irrigation following the development of a hairline crack; irrigation when water level descents 5 cm; and 10 cm below soil surface on physiology of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Experiment was conducted in a strip plot design replicated thrice. The study revealed that nutrient uptake and physiological parameters were found to be maximum with seedlings of rice crop transplanted in non-puddled soil using machine combined with irrigation following the development of a hairline crack. Seedlings of rice crop transplanted in non-puddled soil using machine combined with irrigation once the water level descends to 5 cm beneath the soil surface, had a significant positive influence on rice yield during both the years. It also recorded higher photosynthetic rate and improved physiological parameters, and yield even with minimum use of water. So, it may be recommended as the best alternate method of rice cultivation compared to conventional method where the rainfall is deficit.

Nutrient Uptake and Quality Parameters of Groundnut as Influenced by Gypsum and CaMS Super Application

Nutrient Uptake and Quality Parameters of Groundnut as Influenced by Gypsum and CaMS Super Application

Effect of Integrated Plant Nutrient Management based on Soil Test Crop Response on Primary Plant Nutrients Uptake and Quality Parameters of Blackgram on Alfisols in Western Zone of Tamil Nadu, India

Background:Enhancing food security and nutrition for the expanding population is a significant concern. In this context, the application of inorganic fertilisers and organic manures and plays a pivotal role by supplying vital nutrients to plants. This practice elevates the nutrient content and overall nutritional quality of crops, thereby contributing substantially for meeting the nutritional requirements of a growing populace. Conversely, the repercussions of imbalanced nutrition are detrimental, leading to reduced agricultural productivity and soil fertility degradation. These factors, in turn, contribute to increased cultivation costs. Addressing this multifaceted issue necessitates a precise quantification of inorganic fertiliser integration with organic manures as an effective means of resolving these challenges. Methods: The current research was conducted on a farmer's holding, using blackgram (variety: VBN 11) in Thondamuthur block of Coimbatore district, Western Zone of Tamil Nadu to study the effect of different N, P2O5, K2O and IPNS dosages in nutrient acquisition and quality parameters. The treatments included absolute control, blanket, blanket + FYM, Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) based fertiliser dose for an yield target of 1.0, 1.2 and 1.4 t ha-1, STCR-IPNS based fertiliser dose for an yield target of 1.0, 1.2 and 1.4 t ha-1 and farmer’s practice. Result: The highest nutrient uptake and quality parameters were recorded when employing STCR-IPNS at a targeted yield of 1.4 t ha⁻1. This finding strongly underscores the value of incorporating these practices into our agricultural approach. Doing so not only paves the way for sustainable, nutrient-rich food production but also effectively addresses the issue of imbalanced nutrition. Moreover, it plays a vital role in enhancing soil health. In sum, this comprehensive approach is pivotal in fortifying food security and elevating nutritional standards.

Evaluation of selected burnt plant residues and mineral fertilizers on soil properties and nutrient uptake and growth parameters of oil palm seedlings

Oil palm seeds are difficult to grow due to poor viability; that is why they are raised in nursery. Addition of right and adequate fertilizer is needed to improve soil fertility. Thus, an experiment was conducted in 2022 to compare the effect of empty palm bunch (EPBA) ash, cocoa pod husk ash (CPHA), kola pod husk ash (KPHA), NPK 20:10:10, urea, calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) and muriate of potash (MOP) fertilizers on soil properties, nutrients uptake and growth parameters of oil palm seedlings in Ondo, southwestern Nigeria. Soil samples were collected from Adeyemi Federal University of Education oil palm plantation. Each of the dried empty palm bunch, kola pod husk and cocoa pod husk was burnt and applied as treatments at the rate of 0, 2, 4 and 6 g 900-g−1 soil while NPK 20:10:10, urea, MOP and CAN fertilizers were individually applied at 2 g 900-g−1 soil. The 16 treatments were replicated four times and arranged in completely randomized design. A 900 g of soil was put in each poly pot and planted with Tenera variety of oil palm and watered with 50 cl water daily. The native soil used for the experiment was deficient in major nutrients and adequate in minor nutrients. Relative to the control, application of 2, 4 and 6 g ash types significantly increased plant height, number of leaves, root length and plant girth. NPK, recorded the highest increase in plant height. Leaf length and root length were highest with the application of 6 g KPHA. Application of 6 g EPBA recorded the highest biomass, dry and wet weight and seedlings moisture content. Kola pod husk ash applied at 6 g plant−1. Empty palm bunch ash applied at 6 g plant−1 and cocoa pod husk ash applied at 4 g plant−1 compared favourably with mineral fertilizers in raising vigorous and healthy oil palm seedlings.

Effect of spent tea waste, compost and biochar on some growth parameters and concentration of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) under salinity stress

Salinity is a major environmental problem that adversely affects plant growth by increasing soil osmotic pressure and disrupting plant nutrition. Using organic amendments is a viable tool for reducing physiological and morphological effects of excessive soil salinity on plants. To show the impacts of tea waste, compost and biochar on nutrient status and growth parameters of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) raised in salinity conditions, this study has employed factorial CRD with two treatments involving soil salinity (2.5 and 8 dS m−1) and organic materials (spent tea waste (STW), spent tea waste compost (STWC) and spent tea waste biochar (STWB)) at 0 and 3% w/w in three replications. As soil salinity increased from 2.5 to 8 dS m−1, fresh weight and dry matter production decreased by 31.5% and 30.4%, respectively. Phosphorous and potassium concentrations in plant tissue also decreased significantly due to the increase in salinity. Organic amendments (except STW) due to their physicochemical properties increased the nutrients uptake and growth parameters of the plant. Compared to other amendments, biochar reduced salinity effects on plant growth more effectively, which is possibly due to its high nutrient adsorbing and water holding capacity. In saline conditions, the highest potassium to sodium ratio belonged to the biochar treatment, which was 3.22 and 2.78 times greater than spent tea waste and compost, respectively. Therefore, it was preferred to change the spent tea waste into biochar before being used as soil amendment.

Effect of chemical fertilizers and microbial inoculants on nodulation, yield, uptake of nutrients and quality of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill.

Field experiments were conducted during the rainy season of 2009 and 2010 at Research Farm of Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani, to study the effect of chemical fertilizers and microbial inoculants on nodulation, yield, uptake of nutrients (NPKS) and quality of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill.]. The experimental soil was clayey with pH 8.30. It was low in organic carbon, nitrogen and medium in phosphorus and high in potassium. Treatments comprised of three levels of fertility (100% RDF, 75% RDF and control) and four treatments of bioinoculants (Bradyrhizobium, PSB, Bradyrhizobium + PSB and uninoculated control). The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with four replications. The results revealed that application of 75% RDF showed significantly higher number of nodules and leghaemoglobin content in nodules, 100% RDF found to have higher grain and strawyields, total nutrient uptake (NPKS) and quality parameters ofsoybean. Combined inoculationwith Bradyrhizobium+ PSB recorded significantly higher nodule character leghaemoglobin content of nodule, yield, nutrient, uptake and quality parameters of soybean.

Single and Combined Effect of Cd and Zn on Growth, Metal Accumulation and Mineral Nutrition in Tobacco Plants (Nicotiana tabacum L.)

AbstractContamination by heavy metals (HM) is a global concern due to their impact on terrestrial and aquatic environments. This question has great relevance in agricultural areas due to excessive chemical fertilization. In this sense, Cd is a toxic element that can reach agricultural soils through chemical fertilization or sewage sludges. Tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum L.)can uptake and accumulate Cd in their tissues, and therefore, an increased risk for human health due to tobacco consumption. This study was performed to evaluate the response of tobacco plants to a single and combined amendment of Cd and Zn on agricultural soil with a pot experiment. A factorial experiment was performed with four Cd levels (0, 25, 50 and 100 mg kg-1) and three Zn levels (0, 15 and 25 mg kg-1). Growth, Cd and Zn bioaccumulation and nutrient uptake parameters were assessed. The results revealed that during the tobacco growth, Cd was bioaccumulated on roots (translocation factor <1), while Zn was bioaccumulated on the aerial part (TF>1). Besides, the Zn amendment significantly decreased the Cd uptake and accumulation, especially under intermediate doses (15 mg kg-1Zn). Zinc amendments could be helpful as a mitigation measure for Cd uptake in tobacco plants and, therefore, for health risk reduction.

INTERACTIVE EFFECTS OF N FERTILIZATION AND BRADIRHIZOBIA JAPANICUM ON AGRONOMICAL TRAITS OF SOYBEAN IN SALT AFFECTED SOILS

Soil salinity has enormous negative impact on crop productivity leading to food insecurity and malnutrition, especially in arid regions. A field experiment was conducted during the summer seasons of 2018 and 2019 to evaluate the effects of various N fertilization rates in combination with Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculation on the agronomic perfor-mance of soybean (Glycine max L) in saline soils (EC 5.8 dS m-1). The following fertilization treatments were applied: no fertilization (control), N0Р90К60, N30Р90К60, N60Р90К60 individually and in tandem with B. japonicum as a seed bio-inoculant. The experiment in a split-plot design, N fertilization as the main plot, the seed inoculation as the sub-plot was set up in three replicates. Soybean growth, nutrients uptake and yield parameters increased with increasing N fertili-zation rate, however, the effect was more pronounced with the seed inoculation. Averaged over the cropping seasons, the soybean yield was higher by 20.4%, 19.0%, 34.1% and 6.1% in the inoculated treatments of no-fertlization, N0Р90К60, N30Р90К60, N60Р90К60, respectively as compared to the similar fertilization treatments without the seed inoculation. As a result, fertilization rate of N30Р90К60 in with association B. japonicum inoculation was recommended as this study outcome due to the high soybean yield and quality seeds as the crucial components of sustainable agricultural production under salt-stressed field conditions.

Nutrient Uptake and Quality Parameters of Finger Millet as Influenced by Tillage and Organic Nutrient Management in Finger Millet – French Bean Cropping System

A field experiment was conducted at Research Farm of Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke, Ranchi, Jharkhand during 2020-21 and 2021-22. The experimental soil textural class was sandy loam with pH 5.56, EC 0.03 dS/m and OC (5.91 g/kg). The soil was low in available nitrogen (218.63 kg/ha), medium in available phosphorus (15.75 kg/ha) and medium in available potassium (178.32 kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with three replication. The experiment consisted of four main plot treatments viz., conventional tillage–conventional tillage (CT–CT), conventional tillage–zero tillage (CT–ZT), zero tillage–conventional tillage (ZT–CT) and zero tillage–zero tillage (ZT-ZT) and subplot has four treatments with different sources of organic nutrient management viz., 100% N through FYM, 100% N through vermicompost, 50% N through FYM + 50% N through vermicompost and 75% N through FYM + 25% N through vermicompost. The results revealed the significantly highest value of total N uptake (36.02 kg/ha), total P uptake (11.03 kg/ha), total K uptake (51.66 kg/ha), protein content (7.93 %), Ca content (321.34 mg/100 g) and Fe content (4.29 mg/100 g) were observed in conventional tillage-conventional tillage. Among organic sources, 100% N through vermicompost gave maximum value of total N uptake (37.05 kg/ha), total P uptake (11.24 kg/ha), total K uptake (52.25 kg/ha) and protein content (8.07 %). Ca content (339.15 mg/100 g) and Fe content (4.50 mg/100 g) were observed maximum in 100% N through FYM.

Co-Inoculation of Non-Symbiotic Bacteria Bacillus and Paraburkholderia Can Improve the Soybean Yield, Nutrient Uptake, and Soil Parameters.

Due to its nutritional value and oil, soybean (Glycine max L.) became an economic crop in India and worldwide. The current study investigated the effect of forest-associated plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) on soybean yield and grain nutrient content. Five potential bacteria were used in this study based on their PGPR traits. The pot assay result with two crops (soybean and chickpea) confirmed the growth promotion activity of the two strains (Bacillus subtilis MpS15 and Paraburkholderia sabiae NvS21). The result showed significant (p < 0.05) enhancement in plant length and biomass with the seed treatment with strains (MpS15 and NvS21) compared to the control. Later both biocompatible potential strains were used in field experiments as individuals and consortia. Seed treatment of consortia significantly improves the nodulation and photosynthetic content more than individual treatments and control. Compared to the control, the co-inoculation of MpS15 and NvS21 increased soybean grain, straw yield, and grain NPK contents. Interestingly, soil parameters (organic carbon, available NPK) showed a strong correlation (p < 0.05) with plant parameters and nutrient uptake. Overall, our study provides strong relationships between soil parameters, microbial inoculum as consortia, and soybean performance, and these strains may be utilized as bioinoculant in future.

Winter rye cover crop biomass, nutrient uptake, and quality in response to fall and spring N fertilization

Growers in Illinois often apply manure or add starter fertilizers that contain nitrogen (n) in the fall to save time for other farming operations in the spring. Fall manured fields sometimes receive a starter n in spring as part of the operation. We hypothesized that winter rye (Secale cereale) (wr) cover crop could capture the applied n which in turn changes wr dry matter (dm) biomass, nutrient uptake, and c accumulation capacity, and wr quality (ash, lignin, and c concentrations along with c:n, and lignin:n ratios). Two separate trials with randomized complete block design at two separate locations in Southern Illinois were conducted in 2020 and 2021. Trial one had two rates of fall-applied n (0 vs. 56 kg n ha−1), and trial two had initial fall manure to all plots plus four rates of n fertilizer in spring (0, 23, 47, and 71 kg ha−1). Results for trial one indicated that fall n fertilization had no effect on wr biomass, nutrient uptake, and quality parameters due to loss of applied n in the fall. Spring n application did not affect wr dm biomass but linearly increased n, phosphorus (p), and potassium (k) concentrations, their uptake, c concentration, and decreased c:n and lignin:n ratios. We concluded that spring n fertilization could facilitate n decomposition of wr by decreasing its c:n and lignin:n ratio and help increasing the wr nutrient uptake capacity, but fall n application should be avoided to prevent n loss to the environment and decrease the cost of operation.

Comparative Response of Fermented and Non-Fermented Animal Manure Combined with Split Dose of Phosphate Fertilizer Enhances Agronomic Performance and Wheat Productivity through Enhanced P Use Efficiency

Low availability of native soil phosphorus (P) is a major constraint limiting sustainable crop production especially in alkaline calcareous soils. Application of organic manure in this regard has gained attention of the scientific community. Yet, the potential of fermented animal manure in improving P use efficiency and subsequent crop yield has not been assessed. This pot experiment was designed to study the performance of wheat under application of non-fermented and fermented animal manure in combination with 0, 45 or 90 kg·ha−1 phosphorus in the form of diammonium phosphate (DAP). Results show that non-fermented animal manure and split dose of phosphorus fertilizer improved plant quantitative attributes including plant growth, yield and nutrient uptake parameters. However, the placement of fermented animal manure combined with the full amount of P (90 kg·ha−1) fertilizer gave the mean highest value of fertile tillers per pot (12) and their grain yield (5.2 g). Moreover, plant physiological parameters were enhanced with fermented animal manure and the recommended rate of P fertilizer compared with the control. Likewise, the biochemical properties of wheat grain such as fat, fiber, ash and protein contents were increased by 1.24, 2.26, 1.47 and 11.2%, respectively, in plants receiving fermented animal manure and P fertilizer (90 kg·ha−1). Furthermore, co-application of fermented animal manure with P (90 kg·ha−1) into soil improved phosphorus uptake from 0.72 to 1.25 g·pot−1, phosphorus usage efficiency from 0.715 to 0.856 mg·pot−1, and soil phosphorus extent from 7.58 to 16.1% over controls. It is thus inferred that this new approach resulted in release of P from fermented manure that not only reduced fixation but also enhanced the growth, yield, physiology and nutrient uptake in wheat.

Row Spacing, Levels of Fertilizers and Genotypes Influencing Growth, Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) Grown under Calcareous Soil

A field experiment was conducted at the crop research center of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa (Bihar) during 2020-21 to access the effect of row spacing, levels of fertilizers and genotypes on growth, nutrient uptake and yield parameters of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) grown under calcareous soil. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. Data analysis revealed that significantly higher germination, plant population, number of millable canes, nutrient uptake and cane yield were recorded with planting at row spacing of 90 cm. Irrespective of row spacing and genotypes, application of 150% NPK of RDF exhibited higher plant population (155.2 x 103 /ha at 120 DAP and 159.0 x 103 /ha at 150 DAP), plant height (205.9 cm, 258.0 cm and 325.9 cm at 150 DAP, 180 DAP and 210 DAP, respectively), number of millable canes (123.5 x 103 /ha), length of millable canes (271.5 cm), cane diameter (2.63 cm), nutrient uptake (287.3 Kg ha-1, 28.8 Kg ha-1, 302.6 Kg ha-1 and 28.1 Kg ha-1 for N, P, K and S, respectively) and cane yield (87.4 t ha-1). Most of the growth and yield attributing characters like germination, plant population, plant height, number of millable canes, length of millable canes, cane diameter, nutrient uptake and cane yield were observed significantly higher in genotype CoP 15436. The results demonstrate that sugarcane growers may increase growth, nutrient uptake and cane yield per unit area by planting sugarcane at 90 cm spacing, applying 150% NPK of RDF (225 Kg N ha-1 : 127.5 Kg P2O5 ha-1 : 90 Kg K2O ha-1) as fertilizer input and adopting genotype CoP 15436 in cultivation practice which proved itself as an elite sugarcane genotype.

Effects of Mycorrhizal Biofertilizer on the Biochemical Constituent, Nutrient Uptake, Chlorophyll Content, Growth and Agronomic Parameters of American Yam Bean (Pachyrhizus erosus L.) under Saline Condition

Salt stress negatively impacts plant physiology, metabolism and productivity.The effects of mycorrhizal biofertilizer on the biochemical constituent, nutrient uptake, chlorophyll content, growth and agronomic parameters of American Yam bean (Pachyrhizus erosus L.) under saline conditions were investigated. Seeds were planted in polythene bags previously filled with sand, 50 g of Biofertilizer and supplied with a nutrient solution for six weeks in a completely randomized design in a greenhouse. Plants were subjected to NaCl concentrations (0, 50, 100 and 200 mM) with 0 as control. The concentrations 0 and 50 mM NaCl were tested on the farm for five months. Plots were arranged in a randomized block design. The number of flowers per plant, flowering time, number of pods per plant, yield and harvest index were evaluated. The results in the greenhouse showed that the stem height, leaf area, the number of leaves, noose diameter, dry biomass and chlorophyll content decreased significantly (P&lt;0.01) from 100 mM NaCl. Mg, Ca and K significantly (P&lt;0.001) decreased in plant organs with the supply of intake doses of NaCl in the culture medium. The different metabolites (Total soluble proteins, Proline, Total free amino acids, Total soluble carbohydrates and Total phenolic contents) increased significantly (P&lt; 0.001) from 50 mM NaCl. The findings indicate that the accumulation of AMF positively influenced the growth and agronomic parameters of American yam bean under salinity.Their use alleviated the toxicity of NaCl, improved crop productivity and could be encouraged for better development of salinity affected areas.

Controlled nitrogen transformation in chemo-amended urea improves nitrogen use efficiency and productivity of wheat grown on alkaline calcareous soil.

Low wheat production is linked to soil degradation, low organic matter, temperature variation, and nutrient depletion in soils of semiarid regions. Nitrogen is mostly applied as urea to meet crop requirements; however, excessive N application may pollute the environment and contaminate groundwater. The current studies explored possible ways for decreasing N losses (NH3 volatilization and NO3 leaching) and improving N availability for wheat production in alkaline soil. The ZnO was coated on urea (1% Zn coating) to get zinc-coated urea (ZnU), and both urea and ZnU were incubated in laboratory at recommended rate (RR), i.e., 150kgNha-1 and 80% (N of RR), after further coating with inhibitors [N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) at 1% of urea and 4-amino-1,2,4-triazole (ATC) at 2% of urea], thus creating six treatments. The results showed higher NH3-N loss at day 4 and thereafter a decreasing trend reaching to minimum at day 14. The cumulative NH3-N volatilization from urea alone was found higher (28.99%), except ATC treatments producing statistically similar losses due to restriction in nitrification process. In greenhouse, the treatments were tested in wheat cultivars (Faisalabad 2008 and Lasani) for crop growth, nutrient (N, P, K, and Zn) uptake, and yield parameters, where 80% of RR treatment, i.e., NBPT + ZnU80, was found at par with full RR as commercial products, especially comparable to ZnU (at RR) that produced the highest chlorophyll (53.65unit value), net leaf photosynthetic rate (19.64μmol CO2 m-2s-1), plant biomass (208.13g/pot), grain yield (63.65g/pot), and nutrient (NPK and Zn) accumulation in grain of Fsd-2008 cultivar. In field trial, NBPT + ZnU80 also outperformed and produced the highest physiological efficiency (PE), agronomic efficiency (AE), and nitrogen recovery efficiency (REN); the treatment also found statistically similar with ZnU (at RR) that produced the maximum plant height (95.4cm), plant biomass (11.58 t/ha), grain yield (4.69 t/ha), and 1000-grain weight (42.55g). The relative NO3 leaching was found lower in 80% N treatments, yet leaching was not significant from either treatment at the three stages of crop growth. Overall, current studies revealed the effectiveness of NBPT-amended urea (followed by ZnU) with 20% saving of N inputs through higher N availability for plant uptake that could benefit growers as well as conserve environment.

Effects of Crop Geometry and Nutrient Management On Nutrient Uptake and Quality Parameters of Potato Under Winter Maize + Potato Intercropping System

Effects of crop geometry and nutrient management on nutrient uptake and quality parameters of potato under winter maize + potato intercropping system were studied during two consecutive years (2015-2016 and 2016-17) at BHU, Varanasi, India. Results revealed that under different crop geometry the nutrient uptake (NPK kg/ha) were obtained significantly higher with 1 : 2 row ratio in additive series as compared to other row ratio due to maximum plant population. The minimum nutrient uptake (NPK kg/ha) were obtained with 1:1 row ratio in replacement series. However, quality parameters (protein and starch) did not vary significantly by different crop geometry during both the years of investigation. Amongst nutrient management, the highest nutrient uptake (NPK kg/ha) and quality parameters (protein and starch) were obtained significantly with the application of 100% RDF + 25% N through poultry manure followed by the application of 100% RDF + 25% N through vermicompost. Thus, the results suggest that 1:2 row ratio (crop geometry) in additive series with 100% RDF + 25% N through poultry manure (nutrient management) followed by 100% RDF + 25 % N through vermicompost were feasible and practicable during both the years of investigations. Bangladesh J. Bot. 50(4): 1011-1019, 2021 (December)

Growth, Nutrient Uptake, Yield and Quality Parameters of Nendran Banana (Musa Spp.): As Influenced by the Application of Boron in Typic Rhodustalf of Theni District, Tamil Nadu, India

ABSTRACT To determine the response of banana to boron (B) fertilization, two field experiments (main and a confirmatory trial) were conducted during 2018 and 2019 seasons in B deficient soils (Typic Rhodustalf) of Theni district, Tamil Nadu, India. The treatments consisted of soil and foliar application of boron replicated thrice in a randomized block design using banana cv. Nendran as the test crop. The results of field experiments revealed that banana plants responded well to soil and foliar application of B compared to control (recommended NPK alone). Among the treatments, soil application of 10 g borax plant−1 each at 3rd, 5th and 7th month after planting (MAP) in combination with recommended NPK in B deficient soils increased the availability of B in soil, its uptake by plants and also B fractions in soils than the rest of the treatments which ultimately resulted in an increase in pseudostem height, pseudostem girth, leaf area index, chlorophyll, and dry matter production. Similarly, soil application of boron enhanced finger length, finger girth, individual finger weight, and bunch weight of banana and the cumulative effect of these yield attributes favorably increased the fruit yield of banana (33.85 t/ha), which was 25% higher than control. Banana fruit quality traits, namely, total soluble solids, total sugar, ascorbic acid, and starch content, were also favorably influenced by B application. Thus, the results clearly indicated that soil applied B recorded comparatively higher banana yield than foliar application and control.