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Background: Proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) was considered a self-pollinated annual crop that belongs to the family Poaceae. It was well adapted to many soil and climatic conditions. The productivity was low due to the use of poor quality seed, little or no use of fertilizers, traditional methods of cultivation, delay in nursery sowing and late transplanting. The Integrated Nutrient Supply System (INSS) approach involves the combined use of chemical fertilizers, organic manures and micronutrient fertilizers, which ensures higher crop productions and also helps to restore and sustain soil fertility. Therefore, the study was focused to manage the timely transplanting together with the suitable nutrient combination. Methods: A field experiment was conducted to study the "Effect of seedlings age and different nutrient combinations on growth and yield of Proso Millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) in lateritic soils of Western Ghats" during Kharif, 2016. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with four main plots and five subplot treatments. The main plot treatments composed of four ages of seedlings viz. 20, 30, 40 and 50 days and five subplot treatments of nutrient combinations viz., 100% RDF, 75% RDF + 25% N through FYM, 50% RDF + 50% N through FYM, 25% RDF + 75% N through FYM and 100% N through FYM. Thus, there were twenty treatment combinations, replicated thrice. Result: Results revealed that the proso millet crop transplanted with 30 days old seedlings recorded significantly higher grain yield and straw yield over all other treatments. In nutrient combinations treatments, 100% RDF through chemical fertilizer recorded significantly higher mean plant height hill-1, number of functional leaves hill-1, number of functional tillers hill-1 and plant dry matter accumulation hill-1 than the other treatments and also produced significantly highest yields and yield attributing characters compared to the rest of the nutrient combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The degree of complexation of microelement ions by the biodegradable chelating agent - IDHA was examined in the work. The tests were carried out in water and in a simulated fertilizer environment. In order to compare the obtained results, tests were also carried out for the commonly used EDTA. The performed analyzes allow to determine the influence of the presence of compounds containing macroelements on the degree of binding of microelement ions by the biodegradable IDHA and EDTA chelators. The obtained results make it possible to determine the optimal conditions for the chelation of cations by IDHA, which in the future may be used in the production of micronutrient fertilizers on a large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agronomic biofortification, encompassing the use of mineral and organic nutrient resources which improve micronutrient concentrations in staple crops is a potential strategy to promote the production of and access to micronutrient-dense foods at the farm level. However, the heterogeneity of smallholder farming landscapes presents challenges on implementing agronomic biofortification. Here, we test the effects of zinc (Zn)- and selenium (Se)-containing fertilizer on micronutrient concentrations of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) grown under different landscape positions and with different micronutrient fertilizer application methods in the western Amhara region of Ethiopia. Field experiments were established in three landscape positions at three sites, with five treatments falling into three broad categories: (1) nitrogen (N) fertilizer rate; (2) micronutrient fertilizer application method; (3) sole or co-application of Zn and Se fertilizer. Treatments were replicated across five farms per landscape position and over two cropping seasons (2018 and 2019). Grain Zn concentration ranged from 26.6 to 36.4 mg kg−1 in wheat and 28.5–31.2 mg kg−1 in teff. Grain Se concentration ranged from 0.02 to 0.59 mg kg−1 in wheat while larger concentrations of between 1.01 and 1.55 mg kg−1 were attained in teff. Larger concentrations of Zn and Se were consistently attained when a foliar fertilizer was applied. Application of ⅓ nitrogen (N) yielded significantly larger grain Se concentration in wheat compared to a recommended N application rate. A moderate landscape effect on grain Zn concentration was observed in wheat but not in teff. In contrast, strong evidence of a landscape effect was observed for wheat and teff grain Se concentration. There was no evidence for any interaction of the treatment contrasts with landscape position except in teff, where an interaction effect between landscape position and Se application was observed. Our findings indicate an effect of Zn, Se, N, landscape position, and its interaction effect with Se on grain micronutrient concentrations. Agronomic biofortification of wheat and teff with micronutrient fertilizers is influenced by landscape position, the micronutrient fertilizer application method and N fertilizer management. The complexity of smallholder environmental settings and different farmer socio-economic opportunities calls for the optimization of nutritional agronomy landscape trials. Targeted application of micronutrient fertilizers across a landscape gradient is therefore required in ongoing agronomic biofortification interventions, in addition to the micronutrient fertilizer application method and the N fertilizer management strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complexation of micronutrients with complexing agents reduce undesirable reactions of fertilizers in soil water system. In the form of complex structure nutrients remain available to plants in the useable form. Nanoform fertilizer enhances the surface area of particles and less amount of fertilizer contact with large area of plant roots which reduce fertilizer cost. Controlling release of fertilizer using polymeric material like sodium alginate makes agriculture practices more efficient and cost effective. Several fertilizers and nutrients are used at a large scale to improve crop yields globally and almost more than half goes to waste. Therefore, there is a dire need to improve plant-available nutrients in soil, using feasible, environmentally friendly technologies. In the present research, complexed micronutrients were successfully encapsulated using a novel technique at nanometric scale. The nutrients were complexed with proline and encapsulated using sodium alginate (polymer). Sweet basil was subjected to seven treatments over three months in a moderately controlled environment (25 °C of temperature and 57% of humidity) to study the effects of synthesized complexed micronutrient nano fertilizers. The structural modifications of the complexed micronutrient nanoforms of fertilizers were examined, through X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The size of manufactured fertilizers was between 1 and 200 nm. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy stretching vibration peaks at 1600.9 cm−1 (C=O), 3336 cm−1 (N–H) and at 1090.2 cm−1 (N–H in a twisting and rocking) corresponds to the pyrrolidine ring. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was used to analyze the chemical makeup of the essential oil of the basil plants. Essential oil yield of basil plants increased from 0.0035 to 0.1226% after treatments. The findings of the present research show that complexation and encapsulation improve crop quality, essential oil yield, and antioxidant potential of basil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil and foliar application are the most widely used methods for adding micronutrients to maize. High quality micronutrient fertilizers, however, are difficult to obtain in developing countries; micronutrient seed coatings are an attractive and practical alternative. We applied this approach to maize (Zea mays L.) to demonstrate the effects of boron (B), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo) and zinc (Zn) sulfates on maize germination, vigor, seedling growth, seed yield and seed quality as well as on seed microelement concentration. Seed coating was tested on three representative Chinese soil types (sandy, purple and lime soils). Compared to untreated controls, coating maize seeds with micronutrients significantly increased the seed emergence rate, seedling height, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, main root length, root number, above ground fresh biomass, above ground dry biomass, underground fresh biomass, underground dry biomass, ear thickness and yield in sandy, purple and lime soils. Coating maize seeds with micronutrients also significantly increased the yield and quality of maize seed compared to untreated controls including ear barren tip, ear length, ear thickness, grains/row, hundred seed weigh, and rows/ear. Also, B, Zn, Fe, Mn and Mo microelements accumulated in maize seed after coating the seed with micronutrients. Our findings indicate that micronutrient seed coating may improve nutrient uptake and production of maize hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intercalation of 8-hydroxyquinoline (HQ) organic chelating ligand onto the structure of Na+-montmorillonite (MMT) was prepared and investigated by using Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction spectrometry (XRD), elemental analysis, and scanning electron microscope with energy X-ray dispersive (SEM–EDS) techniques; the results indicated that 8-hydroxyquinoline was successfully intercalated in the interlayer space of montmorillonite. This intercalation compound was used to construct a potentiometric electrode. Potentiometric results showed the best response to Cu2+ ion with a slope of 30.45 ± 0.36 mV decade−1 (R2 = 0.9987) and provided a good linearity within a concentration range of 10−5–0.5 M. The limit of detection of the electrode was determined as 1.99×10−6 mol L−1. The selectivity coefficient of electrode was evaluated by a separate solution method (SSM), and the resulting values of the selectivity coefficient were small which indicated the electrode gave the best response to Cu2+ ion. This electrode also showed good precision, repeatability, durability, fast response time, and selective to copper ion. Cyclic voltametry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis exhibited that 8-hydroxyquinoline could help enhance the specificity of the montmorillonite to form with Cu2+ ion in solution. The proposed potentiometric electrode was successfully applied to determine Cu2+ in a real micronutrient fertilizer sample by the standard addition method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the changing climatic conditions, one of the most pressing issues in wheat production is the improvement of the yield quality, the lack of which has a negative impact on animal and human health. More than 25% of the world's population are affected by micronutrient deficiencies in food products, a problem which is known as hidden hunger. Thus, effective micronutrient management is crucial for improving both the quantity and quality of wheat production by increasing the plant's ability to tolerate various environmental stresses and diseases. In this review, previous works were assessed to investigate the significance of micronutrient fertilizers and their interaction effects on the wheat grain yield and quality, including high-quality and nutritionally rich products. The application of micronutrients mixed with macronutrients significantly increases plant growth, physiological traits, yield components, the grain yield, and the quality traits. Among the types of applications, the foliar application of nutrients is very profitable due to its efficiency in terms of economics, ecology, and the qualitative and quantitative yield. In short, in-depth studies are needed to determine the best concentrations, forms, and times of application of micro-fertilizers to the wheat field and to mitigate the challenges of the increasing wheat demand due to steadily rising world population growth and reducing the rates of nutritional deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous use of only nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) containing fertilizers is claimed to be the causes of other secondary and micronutrients depletion, resulting in low crop productivity in Ethiopia. In this study, on-farm trials were conducted to compare the effect of multi-nutrient blended fertilizer – also called Sulfur (S) zinc (Zn) boron (B) (NPSZnB: 17.7 N – 35.3P2O5 – 7.6S – 0.25B-2.2Zn) on the yield and yield components of bread wheat grown in Andosols in south western Ethiopia during 2017 and 2018 cropping seasons. Seven treatments involving five levels of sulfur-zinc-born-blend fertilizer (50, 100, 150, 200, 300 kg NPSZnB kg ha−1) were compared against a compound fertilizer (100 kgha−1 NPS) and the conventionally used 150 kg ha−1 di-ammonium phosphate (DAP). For all treatments, 100 kg ha−1 was applied. The seven treatments were replicated three times using farm fields as replicates and arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD). Results revealed no significant yield advantages of applying micronutrient containing fertilizers compared to fertilizers without micronutrients. The marginal rate of return analysis showed that the application of 100 NPSZnB kg ha−1 was the most profitable. Season had a significant (p <.001) effect on bread wheat yield. ZnB blended fertilizer was advantageous when applied during good rainy seasons in Andosols of Ethiopian highlands. For good performances of ZnB blended fertilizers, taking into account, the soil moisture availability is advised for better productivity and profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the growing population of Earth, the problem of providing food comes to the fore. Therefore, the search for new, economically available sources of trace elements for crop production is relevant. One of these potential sources is blast-furnace sludge: highly dispersed metallurgical waste, the industrial processing of which is difficult due to its high zinc content. We studied the effect of blast-furnace sludge on rapeseed plants in laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments and also assessed the accumulation of sludge components in plant organs. The studied sludge sample consisted of micron and submicron particles containing compounds of iron, silicon, aluminum, zinc, calcium, and sulfur. Used concentrations: laboratory—0.01, 0.1, 1%, 10, and 100 g L−1; greenhouse—0.01, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 g kg−1; field—0.5, 2, and 4 t ha−1. During a laboratory experiment, a decrease in the germination of rapeseed seeds exposed to 0.01, 0.1, 10, and 100 g L−1 waste was observed, but 1 g L−1 promoted the increase of this indicator by 7% regarding control (0 g L−1). While inhibiting seed germination, the sludge had a beneficial effect on the vegetative performance of plants. Reverse effects were noted in the greenhouse experiment as an increase in seed germination (introduction of 1 g kg−1 of sludge to the substrate caused maximum stimulation) and a decrease in rapeseed morphometric parameters were observed. However, at a concentration of 10 g kg−1, the root mass increased by 43% and the stem mass by 63%. In the same group, the highest content of chlorophylls was noted. The number of pods in all experimental groups of plants was less than in control (0 g kg−1) plants, but at the same time, in the variants of 0.01 and 1 g kg−1, the weight of seeds was noticeably increased, by 15.6 and 50%, respectively. Under the conditions of the field experiment, the sludge had a positive effect on the indicators of biological and economic productivity. Thus, exposure to 0.5 and 2 t ha−1 of sludge significantly increased the dry matter and leaf area. The highest values of photosynthetic capacity were recorded at a dose of 2 t ha−1. The maximum increase in yield was ensured by the introduction of sludge at a concentration of 0.5 and 2 t ha−1. The sludge dose of 4 t ha−1, which was also used, either had no effect or suppressed the development of the analyzed traits. The study of the accumulation of zinc and iron in the organs of plants showed the absence of a pronounced dose-dependent accumulation of zinc in the organs of rapeseed, while for iron, an increase in the content of the element in the organs of plants associated with an increase in the concentration of sludge in the soil was recorded. Our results demonstrate the promise of further research and development of methods for the agricultural use of highly dispersed sludge from wet gas cleaning of blast furnace production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The zinc micronutrient fertilizers have a critical impact on the grain productivity and quality attributes of maize. However, the low use-efficiency issues of the applied Zn-fertilizers are required to be addressed through the development of novel formulations and alternative application techniques. Objectives: This field study investigates the comparative impact of seed invigoration (including seed priming and coating) treatments with bulk zinc and ZnO nanoparticles (ZnONPs). Methods: The two seed treatments with two different zinc sources at three different concentrations of 0, 20, and 40 mg L−1 each, for a total of ten treatments, were evaluated for vegetative growth, photosynthetic pigments, grain yield, and quality traits in Zea mays. Results: The total chlorophyll content was improved by ZnONPs seed priming at the V8 stage. However, there were plants that grew tall, bearing longer ears with bulk ZnSO4 and the untreated control. Yield-contributing factors like number of seeds per cob, and 1000-grain weight were marginally improved by ZnONPs treatment. Overall, only cob weight, starch, total soluble protein, and soil nutrient (N, P, K, and Zn) content were significantly enhanced by ZnONPs treatment. Furthermore, no negative effect was recorded on the soil microbiological and enzymatic activities seed treatment with both the zinc sources. Conclusion: The seed treatment, i.e. coating and priming with ZnONPs, did not significantly alter the grain yield, but the seed starch and total soluble protein content were improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cowpea is a leguminous crop of indeterminate growth habit and continues to produce flowers throughout its life cycle. In order to realize the genetic yield potential of cowpea, nutrient requirements of later formed flushes also needs to be met. Hence the present study was formulated to assess the effect of foliar application of water-soluble macro nutrient fertilizers viz., NPK 19:19:19 and potassium nitrate and micronutrient fertilizers viz. zinc sulphate and solubor for yield maximization in bush vegetable cowpea. Methods: The field experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station, Balaramapuram, during Rabi 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 13 treatments in three replications. The treatments comprised of recommended dose of conventional fertilizers (RDF) NPK 20:30:10 kg ha-1 as control and RDF + foliar application of water-soluble fertilizers 19:19:19 (0.5%) and potassium nitrate (0.5%) with zinc sulphate (0.05%) and solubor (0.025%) in twelve different combinations. Result: Results revealed that compared to RDF alone, RDF + foliar application of water-soluble macro and micro nutrient fertilizers at 45 DAS significantly improved the dry matter production, number of pods per plant and pod weight and recorded a yield enhancement of 22 to 55 per cent. Among the treatments, RDF + foliar application of 19:19:19 (0.5%) and solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS recorded the highest dry matter production per plant (39.51 g), pods per plant (30.88 no.), pod yield (7410 kg ha-1), net return (82651 Rs ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.26). The treatments, RDF + foliar application of 19:19:19 (0.5%) at 45 DAS; RDF + foliar application of 19:19:19 (0.5%), zinc sulphate (0.05%) and solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS; and RDF + foliar application of potassium nitrate (0.5%) and solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS also recorded comparable number of pods per plant, green pod yield, net return and B:C ratio. Considering the highest green pod yield, net return and B:C ratio, RDF + foliar application of NPK 19:19:19 (0.5%) and solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS could be recommended for yield maximization in bush type vegetable cowpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An appropriate fertilization strategy is essential for improving micronutrient supply, crop nutrition, yield and quality. Comparative effects of different application strategies of micronutrient fertilizer were evaluated in two contrasting sites/soils (upper slope Chernozem and lower slope Solonetz) within a farm field located in the Brown soil zone of Saskatchewan, Canada. The study objective was to examine the impact of Cu, Zn, and B fertilizer application strategies on their mobility, bioavailability and fate in the soil as well as crop yield responses. The application strategies were broadcast, broadcast and incorporation, seed row banding, and foliar application of Cu, Zn, and B on wheat, pea, and canola, respectively. The study was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four treatment replicates for a specific crop and site. Crop biomass yields were not significantly influenced by micronutrient placement strategies at both sites. Pea tissue Zn concentration (35.2 mg Zn kg−1 grain and 5.15 mg Zn kg−1 straw) was increased by broadcast and incorporation of Zn sulfate on the Solonetz soil. Residual levels of soil extractable available Cu were increased significantly to 3.18 mg Cu kg−1 soil at Chernozem and 2.53 mg Cu kg−1 soil Solonetz site with the seed row banding of Cu sulfate. The PRS™-probe supply of Cu (1.84 µm Cu/cm2) and Zn (1.18 µm Zn/cm2) were significantly higher with broadcast application of corresponding micronutrient fertilizer in the Chernozem soil. Both the chemical and spectroscopic speciation revealed that carbonate associated Cu and Zn were dominant species that are likely to control the bioavailability of these micronutrients under field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Granite and basalt meals are used as fertilizers due to their mineral composition. • Unfortunately, they are rich in radionuclides which may pose radioactive hazard. • Granite meals have higher content of 40K, 226Ra and 232Th than basalt meals. • Radioactive hazard indices exceed the permissible values in case of granite meals. • The results indicate that the use of basalt meal does not pose a radiological risk. Granite and basalt meals (rock meals) are regarded as micronutrient fertilizers due to their rich content of macro- and microelements essential for proper development of planta. However, they also are rich in radionuclides which may pose a radioactive hazard to environment, food and people. The aim of this study was to assess the environmental and human exposure to ionizing radiation emitted by natural radioactive isotopes containing in granite and basalt meals increasingly used for soil fertilization. Gamma ray spectrometry was applied in order to determine concertation of radioactive isotopes: 40K, 226Ra and 232Th. Afterwards, radiological hazard parameters were calculated in order to assess health and environmental risks. The obtained results indicated that the average radioactivity concentration of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K of all granite meal samples were higher than their average content in the Earth's crust. Whereas, basalt meals contained much lower natural radioactive isotopes. Similarly, the radiological hazard indices were higher and exceeded limit values in case of granite meals, thus excluding them from use in fertilization. Basalt meals were characterized by lower values of these indices, suggesting the possibility of their safe use in agriculture as soil fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A preparation of basic manganese carbonate containing manganite MnO(OH), rhodochrosite MnCO3, and bixbyite Mn2O3 reacts with nitrilotriacetic acid to give low-solubility manganese compound Mn[N(CH2COO)2(CH2COOH)] · 2H2O (manganese nitriloacetate dihydrate) in the form of whisker microcrystals. An alternative method for the preparation of the compound is the reaction of manganese(ii) sulfate with nitrilotriacetic acid disodium salt. This compound can be converted into a water-soluble form by the treatment with organic amines as solubility promoters. The effect of the manganese-containing compounds on the biometric parameters of seedlings of the Zlata spring wheat was studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Supplement of balanced nutrition is required for the growth and development of crops and humans, particularly essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals. The application of mineral micronutrient fertilizers to soil or plant leaves to increase micronutrient content in edible parts of crop. Therefore, this study is focused to evaluate the effect of agronomic biofortification with different nutrient levels on maize. Methods: A field experiment was conducted on sandy clayey loam soil during the Rabi season of 2020-21 Perambalur, Tamil Nadu to study the effect of agronomic biofortification through integrated nutrient management for improving maize (Zea mays L.) yield and quality under Cauvery delta condition. Two hybrids in main-plots both, QPM and non-QPM were sown by direct method on ridges at a spacing of 60 x 20 cm under split plot design (SPD) with 6 treatments of nutrient management in sub-plot combination under three replications. Result: The results revealed that the nutrient level treatments containing 50% RDF through NPK + 50% RDF through FYM with Fe and Zn as foliar application @ 0.5% conc led to highest growth and yield attributes, grain yield (8.52 t ha-1) and stover yield (10.35 t ha-1) and also resulted in maximum crude protein content (14.93%), starch content (63.85 mg g-1), Fe (36.25 mg kg-1) and Zn (29.35 mg kg-1) in maize grain. It was observed that agronomic biofortification through integrated nutrient management enhanced the vegetative growth and yield components of non-QPM hybrid, whereas it improved the grain quality content of the QPM hybrid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the influence of phosphorus (P) fertilization (without and with added P fertilizer) and soil moisture (stress and no-stress) on efficacy, fate, and transformation of soil applied micronutrients such as copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and Cu + Zn in a wheat and pea cropping sequence. Wheat was grown as first crop under controlled environment conditions in which micronutrient fertilizer treatments were applied, whereas pea was grown as following crop with recommended macronutrient fertilizers to understand the residual effects of micronutrient fertilization. The high-P fertilizer application and no-stress moisture condition produced the highest grain and straw yield of wheat. Without P fertilization, there were significant negative effects of a combined application of Cu and Zn on wheat yield in a Dark Gray Chernozem. Yield of the following pea crop did not show response to residual Cu and Zn. Micronutrient fertilization increased the Cu and Zn concentration in wheat and pea grain and straw and resulted in increased after-harvest availability and supply in soils. Apart from the increased concentration in labile fraction, a considerable amount of added Cu and Zn was occluded with organic matter and oxyhydroxide species, respectively. Molecular speciation analyses revealed that carbonate associated was the dominant form of Cu and Zn in the soils. Additional Cu species such as Cu-acetate and methoxide, and Zn species including Znsorbed montmorillonite species were identified. Insoluble Cu-phosphate and Zn-phosphate complexes were not identified by speciation analyses and do not appear to be a significant factor controlling Cu and Zn availability in these soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possibility of foaming of phosphate glass matrices for the synthesis of complex micronutrient fertilizers with prolonged action is considered. The region of glass formation in the K2O–CaO–P2O5 system has been studied. The optimal composition of the initial glass is selected. Foaming of the initial mixtures is carried out using one-stage and two-stage technology; their internal structure, phase composition, and resistance to water are studied. It has been established that foaming using the two-stage technology makes it possible to obtain a material with stable structure and properties, which is important when it is used as a fertilizer with prolonged action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the spatial variability and the degree of abundance and deficiency of medium and micronutrient element contents in typical paddy soils of China, and to develop the best fertilization management for improving rice yields. Based on 289 monitoring points of paddy soils distributed across the northeast, Yangtze River delta, the middle of the Yangtze River, the southwest and south of China, soil samples collected in 2016 were determined for the contents of available medium and micronutrient elements (calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, manganese, copper, zinc, boron and molybdenum) in paddy soils. The spatial variability of these elements across the five regions was assessed. Combined with the critical values for limiting rice growth due to deficiency of available medium and micronutrient elements, the abundance and deficiency degree of available medium and micronutrient elements in the paddy soils were evaluated. The results showed that the contents of exchangeable magnesium and available boron in the northeast of China were much higher than those in the other regions, while the contents of available zinc in paddy soils were the lowest among the five regions. The highest average content of available manganese and the lowest average content of available sulfur in the paddy soils were both found in Yangtze River delta. The highest average content of available copper but the lowest average content of available iron, manganese and molybdenum among paddy soils was observed in middle of the Yangtze River. As compared with the other areas, the exchangeable calcium content of the paddy soils in the southwest of China was significantly higher (P<0.05), while the available copper content was significantly lower (P<0.05). Compared with the other areas, the contents of available iron and molybdenum in the south of China were significantly higher (P<0.05), while the contents of exchangeable calcium and magnesium were significantly lower (P<0.05). Critical values for evaluation of these elements were summarized based on practices and previous studies. The critical values for exchangeable calcium, exchangeable magnesium and available sulfur were 400, 50 and 16 mg/kg, respectively. The critical values for available iron, manganese, copper, zinc, boron and molybdenum were 4.5, 10, 2, 1.5, 0.5 and 0.15 mg/kg, respectively. The soils would be lack of the corresponding element if the contents of these elements were below the critical values and thereby the rice growth may be limited. Based on the critical values, the exchangeable calcium and magnesium contents in paddy soils of the five regions were rich in China. The contents of available sulfur in paddy soils were abundance for rice growth in the northeast, the middle of the Yangtze River, and the southwest of China, while 42.2% and 41.8% of monitoring points in Yangtze River delta and south of China were lack of available sulfur. The contents of available iron, manganese and copper were abundance in all the paddy soils. The proportions of monitoring points with lower contents of available zinc than its critical value were 75.0%, 52.3%, 31.9%, 53.2% and 10.4% in the northeast, Yangtze river delta, the middle of the Yangtze River, the southwest, and south of China, respectively. The proportions of monitoring points with lower contents of available boron than its critical value were 38.5%, 65.2%, 92.2%, 88.6% and 78.3% in the northeast, Yangtze river delta, the middle of the Yangtze River, the southwest, and south of China, respectively. The proportions of monitoring points with lower contents of available molybdenum than its critical value were 28.6%, 60.4%, 82.6%, 42.0% and 33.4% in the northeast, Yangtze river delta, the middle of the Yangtze River, the southwest, and south of China, respectively. It indicated that the contents of calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese and copper in the paddy soils of typical areas in China were abundance for rice growth. Sulfur fertilizer was needed in some areas of Yangtze River delta and southwest of China. The available zinc, boron and molybdenum in most of paddy soils were deficiency, and additional micronutrient element fertilizers were needed for rice growth, especially for zinc in the northeast, zinc, boron and molybdenum in Yangtze River delta, boron and molybdenum in middle of the Yangtze River, boron in southwest, and boron in south of China. And the medium and micronutrient element fertilizers should be included as part of fertilization management in practice for improving rice yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have been performed on the sod-podzolic medium loamy soil of the Middle Cis-Urals for determining the mineral nutrition factors to ensure obtaining the yield of the Accord rape seeds of at least 1. 50 t/ha. In 2018 - 2019, the introduction of calculated doses of nitrogen (N60-80) fractionally (½ before sowing and ½ as top dressing) in the phase of three to four leaves, followed by subsequent foliar fertilization with the ZnSO4 micronutrient fertilizer (162 g/ha) in the budding phase, helped to obtain the planned yield by increasing the rape plant stand density by 8 plants/m² and the rape plant productivity by 0. 45 g. Improvement of mineral nutrition has increased the area of plant leaves of the crops in the budding phase to 27, 000 m²/ha. With the seed yield of 1. 53 t/ha, rape has ensured the gross fat yield of 687 kg/ha and the protein yield of 320 kg/ha; it has also showed the efficiency of cultivation -- the energy efficiency coefficient of 1. 64 with the cost of 10, 413 rubles per ton of seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous use of only N and P containing fertilizers are claimed to be the causes of other secondary and micronutrients depletion, resulting in low crop productivity in Ethiopia. In this study, on-farm trials were conducted to compare the effect of multinutrient blended fertilizer – also called boron blend (NPSB: 18. 1 N – 36.1 P2O5 – 6.7S – 0.71B) on the yield and yield components of food barley grown in Alisols in southern Ethiopia during 2017 and 2018 cropping seasons. Seven treatments involving five levels of born-blend fertilizer (50, 100, 150, 200, and 300 kg NPSB kg ha−1) were compared against a compound fertilizer (100 kgha−1 NPS) and the conventionally used 150 kg ha−1 di-ammonium phosphate (DAP). The seven treatments were replicated five times using farm fields as replicates and arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD). Results revealed significant yield advantages of applying micronutrient containing fertilizers compared to fertilizers without micronutrients. The marginal rate of return analysis showed that the application of 100 NPSB kg ha−1 was the most profitable and agronomically efficient. Season and the soil fertility variation among farmers had a significant (p <.001) effect on food barley yield. Application of Boron blend fertilizer had 500 kg ha−1 grain yield advantage compared to equivalent amount of DAP that was highly promoted by the extension system. B-blended fertilizer was advantageous when applied during good rainy seasons in Alisols of Ethiopian highlands. For good performances of B-blended fertilizers, taking into account the soil moisture availability is advised for both better productivity and agronomic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soilless substrates are routinely amended with dolomite and sulfate-based micronutrients to improve fertility, but the effect of these amendments on phosphorous (P) in substrate pore-water during containerized crop production is poorly understood. The objectives of this research were as follows: compare the effects of dolomite and sulfate-based micronutrient amendments on total P (TP), total dissolved P (TDP), orthophosphate P (OP), and particulate P (PP; TP - TDP) concentrations in pourthrough extracts; to model saturated solid phases in substrate pore-water using Visual MINTEQ; and to assess the effects of dolomite and micronutrient amendments on growth and subsequent P uptake efficiency (PUE) of Lagerstroemia L. 'Natchez' (crape myrtle) potted in pine bark. Containerized crape myrtle were grown in a greenhouse for 93 days in a 100% pine bark substrate containing a polymer-coated 19N-2.6P-10.8K controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) and one of four substrate amendment treatments: no dolomite or micronutrients (control), 2.97 kg·m-3 dolomite (FL); 0.89 kg·m-3 micronutrients (FM); or both dolomite and micronutrients (FLM). Pour-through extracts were collected approximately weekly and fractioned to measure pore-water TP, TDP, and OP and to calculate PP. Particulate P concentrations in pour-through extracts were generally unaffected by amendments. Relative to the control, amending pine bark with FLM reduced water-extractable OP, TDP, and TP concentrations by ≈56%, had no effect on P uptake efficiency, and resulted in 34% higher total dry weight (TDW) of crape myrtle. The FM substrate had effects similar to those of FLM on plant TDW and PUE, and FM reduced pore-water OP, TDP, and TP concentrations by 32% to 36% compared with the control. Crape myrtle grown in FL had 28% lower TDW but pour-through OP, TDP, and TP concentrations were similar to those of the control. Chemical conditions in FLM were favorable for precipitation of manganese hydrogen phosphate (MnHPO4), which may have contributed to lower water-extractable P concentrations in this treatment. This research suggests that amending pine bark substrate with dolomite and a sulfate-based micronutrient fertilizer should be considered a best management practice for nursery crop production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agronomic biofortification is the fastest and less expensive method to overcome micronutrient deficiencies of iron, zinc and selenium. Fertilizers also help in augmenting vitamins and other food qualities. Although fertilizers have contributed vastly toward increase in food production, their misuse or rather abuse has led to severe environmental pollution. These include eutrophication of sea and inland waters, depletion of ozone layer and global warming. Fertilizers also contribute toward an increase in mineral and vitamin content in crops. Micronutrient fertilizers can increase concentration of iron and zinc in grains and vegetables, the deficiencies of which are widespread in Asian and African countries. Nitrogen fertilization can increase content of carotene in carrots. Liming is reported to increase calcium concentration in vegetables. Similarly, sulfur (S) fertilization can increase the content of S-containing amino acids in grains, glucosinolates in many Brassica species and alliin content in garlic and onion. As regards, vitamin C, there are increases as well decreases due to nitrogen reported in literature; the minor decreases are well compensated by an increase in yield. Potassium fertilization is reported to increase vitamin C content in some vegetables. Nitrogen fertilization increases nitrate content in vegetables, which is considered harmful, but some recent reports suggests advantages of this increase. Instead of blaming fertilizer for quality of food and environmental degradation, sincere efforts are needed toward its judicious application and avoiding its overuse or abuse and biofortification is the best suited method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the effect of different micronutrients (Mn, Fe, Zn) and farmyard manure (FYM) on the vegetative, phenological, and achene yield components of sunflower a field experiment was conducted in Maragheh, North West of Iran during the growing season 2018–2019. The treatments were arranged in a split-plot design- with three replicates. The main plots assigned to two levels of FYM (0 and 20 t ha−1) and sub plots assigned to the recommended dose of three micronutrients (Mn, Fe, Zn). The results revealed significant improvements in the growth and yield of sunflower due to the main and interaction effects of farmyard manure and inorganic fertilizer application. The highest number of leaves and the highest leaf area was observed in a plant grown by FYM + Zn. However, there was no significant difference between micronutrients under inorganic condition (without FYM application). The highest leaf relative water content (RWC), plant height, internode distance, and chlorophyll was recorded for plants grown by Fe or Zn under FYM applied condition. Application of FYM and micronutrients reduced the number of days to flowering. However, the application of FYM significantly delayed plant maturity. Achene number per head, 100-achene weight, achene length, achene width, achene oil percent, achene yield, and harvest index significantly increased with the application of FYM and the best performance was in a plant grown by FYM + Zn and FYM + Fe. The percentage of hollow and empty achene was significantly reduced by the application of FYM. Combined applications of FYM and micronutrients has become an increasingly common practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brown marmorated stink bug Halyomorpha halys is an invasive Asiatic pentatomid recently introduced in Europe. It is regarded as a major pest of many crops due to its marked polyphagy, high reproduction potential and high mobility. Among European countries where H. halys established in the last years, most of economic losses have been reported in Italy. A promising control approach against H. halys is based on the suppression of its gut primary symbiont 'Candidatus Pantoea carbekii' (P. carbekii), vertically transmitted through maternal secretions containing symbiotic bacteria smeared during oviposition, which are ingested by neonates. Symbiont elimination is regarded as a promising pest control strategy based on the application of antimicrobial substances. Here, an anti-symbiont activity is shown in response to the application of micronutrient fertilizers showing antimicrobial activity, resulting in H. halys nymphal mortality under laboratory conditions. Exposure to commercial products, available for organic farming, was tested in combination with a pesticide additive on isolated stink bug egg masses, by measuring survival to II nymphal instar of neonates emerging from treated eggs. Zinc, copper and citric acid biocomplexes showed the most effective impact on H. halys survival, causing more than 90% nymph mortality. Molecular diagnosis for P. carbekii confirmed that observed effects were attributable to missed symbiont acquisition. Taken together, our results provide indication for the potential field use of micronutrient fertilizers as controls tool against H. halys. Future work will provide indications to maximize the effect of this approach in the field, enabling to design a new, eco-friendly approach for the control of this pest threatening Italian and European agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, it is an obvious fact that it is necessary to look for new approaches to agriculture, which would ensure the maximum reduction in the dependence of the volumes and quality of the crop on external factors. The use of nanopreparations in crop production is the most promising. The development of new technologies and techniques using nanomaterials, which would ensure high yields and quality of potato products, is relevant and has great practical importance. The research in recent years has established the important role of selenium in the regulation of plant activity. The purpose of this work was to research the effect of selenium nanoparticles and selenium in the form of micronutrient fertilizers on early-maturing varieties of potatoes for table use: adaptive capacity and nutritional value. Selenium nanopowder in the form of a solution contained the optimum nanoselenium concentration applied-0.13 g per hectare seeding rate. The potato tubers were soaked in distilled water 30 minutes before seeding. The treatment of potato tubers with selenium micronutrient, the dose of which amounted to 400 g per 1 hectare, was also carried out before planting. The soil preparation and agrotechnology cultivation generally accepted in the Ryazan region. The research results showed that presowing treatment of potato tubers with selenium nanopreparation had the most favorable effect on the adaptive capacity of plants (heat resistance, water-holding properties), as well as on yield increase, than treatment of tubers with selenium in the form of microfertilizer. The use of Se nanoparticles leads to an increase in the protein and vitamin C content. The Udacha potato variety showed great responsiveness to the entering of various forms of selenium in comparison with others. The use of selenium in the form of microfertilizer leads to an increase in the accumulation of starch and dry matter. These figures were the highest in potato tubers of the Zhukovskiy Ranniy variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, effects of foliar application (with constant 0.2% concentration) of chemical NPK (N20:P10:K20) and organic fertilizers of Biomin (an organic aminochelate fertilizer), Humifolin (a humic acid based fertilizer), Biomin + Humifolin, a synthetic macro-micro mixture, soil application of NPK (600 mg.kg−1 of the N20:P10:K20 formulation), and a no fertilizer control were evaluated on growth and quality of chili pepper (Capsicum annuum var annuum) seedlings under greenhouse conditions with cool temperature of 15 ± 3 °C. The results showed that most growth and quality traits were best improved by foliar application of Biomin aminochelate followed by Humifolin fertilizer. Higher values for leaf area, leaf number, chlorophyl index, root and shoot biomass, and leaf concentration of soluble sugars, N, K, Ca, and Zn, were attributed to foliar application of Biomin and Humifolin. The mixture of Biomin + Humifolin had reduced values of those parameters indicating possible negative interaction when these two organic fertilizers are mixed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many parts of the world, soils deficient and/or toxic in micronutrients reduce potential soybean (Glycine max) yields. The objective of our study was to grow plants in low to high concentrations of boron (B) and zinc (Zn) to determine how B and Zn deficiencies and toxicities affect soybean growth and interact with other essential nutrients in roots, leaves, and seeds. We found that B significantly affected levels of all essential nutrients except manganese and iron, while Zn significantly affected all essential nutrients in at least one plant tissue tested. Some of the physiological responses and nutrient interactions were cultivar-dependent. This study showed how deficiencies and toxicities of B and Zn affect plant growth and how B and Zn fertility interacts with many of the other essential nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the large variety of raw materials used in manufacturing micronutrient fertilizers, the quantitative determination of Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb in such complex matrices is challenging and often impairs the routine analysis even in modern laboratories. In the present work, a LIBS method for the direct analysis of pelletized test samples was developed to find a solution where the optimization relied on both analytical sensitivity and limit of detection by combining Doehlert experimental design with Derringer's desirability function. The test samples were analyzed in the form of pressed pellets prepared from a large variety of laboratory samples previously comminuted in a planetary ball mill. LIBS experiments were carried out with a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser at 1064 nm, and a spectrometer with Echelle optics and an intensified charged-coupled device. The optimized operating conditions were thus found with laser pulses of 25 J cm−2 (750 μm laser spot size), 30 accumulated laser pulses per site, 2.5 μs gate delay, and 10.0 μs integration time gate. Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb mass fractions, obtained by a validated reference method based on microwave-assisted acid digestion and ICP OES measurements, were used to build the calibration models. Linear correlation coefficients between the analyte mass fractions and the corresponding emission intensities ranged from 0.9980 for Pb to 0.9999 for Cr, and the limits of detection were 5 mg kg−1 Cd, 7 mg kg−1 Cr, 15 mg kg−1 Ni and 50 mg kg−1 Pb. The coefficients of variation of measurements (n = 10 sites per pellet, 30 laser pulses per site) varied from 0.5% (Ni, Pb) to 15% (Cd, Cr). The proposed method simplifies the analytical sequence and complies with the purpose of fast and accurate assessment of inorganic contamination profiles in micronutrient fertilizers. Unlabelled Image • Multivariate optimization strategies were combined for analysis of micronutrient fertilizers by LIBS. • Doehlert design and Derringer's desirability function were used for attaining either higher sensitivities or appropriate limits of detection. • Cd, Cr, Pb and Ni were accurately quantified in pressed pellets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irrigation is a key component of crop productivity, environmental protection and sustainable agriculture. To understand this, paddy-crops and soil samples were collected from rainfed (RFS) and irrigated (IRS) soils of semi-arid agro-ecosystems, Central India. The objectives of the current study were to (1) determine total concentrations of Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn in paddy-soils and paddy-crops, (2) chemical fractionation of operationally defined pools of Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn content in paddy-soils. Total micronutrient concentrations followed the order as: Fe > Mn > Zn > Cu with higher values in RFS paddy-soils. High residual fraction indicated the existence of micronutrients within mineral lattice structure, which resulted in low to moderate mobility factor (MF) of Cu, Fe, and Zn in the paddy-soils. The high Mn concentrations in non-residual fractions resulted in MF more than 50%. The transfer factors of total micronutrients (TF TM ) showed high transfer of Zn and Mn to paddy-crops. The high TF EMF (transfer factor of exchangeable micronutrient fractions) of Cu and Fe revealed significant accumulation in paddy-roots. Paddy-grains differed significantly ( P <  0.05) in total micronutrient content with high values in IRS agro-ecosystems. The correlation and multiple linear regression analyses showed control of micronutrient fractions on availability, uptake, transfer and translocation in paddy-crops through root system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A greenhouse experiment was conducted in the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi (U.P.), India, during kharif 2013 to find out the effect of biochar and sewage sludge (SS) on growth, yield, and micronutrient uptake in rice crop. Nine treatments were employed using six different doses of biochar (2.5, 5.0, 7.5 10, 15, and 20 t ha−1) amended with a fixed dose of SS (30 t ha−1) and 50% recommended dose of nitrogen (50% RDN), i.e., 60 kg ha−1. Other three treatments were absolute control (no fertilizers), 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (100% RDF) which was 120:60:60 kg ha−1 as nitrogen (N): phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5):dipotassium oxide (K2O), and 30 t ha−1SS + 50% RDN. Experimental results showed a significant increase in yield of rice crop with increasing levels of biochar along with SS. Application of biochar at 20 t ha−1 along with 30 t ha−1SS increased grain yield to the extent of 2.5 times over absolute control (no fertilizers) and 8.5% over control (100% RDF). The uptake of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn) (micronutrients) increased significantly with graded doses of biochar application from 2.5 to 20 t ha−1 in the soil. The maximum micronutrient uptake and grain yield of rice were found in T9 where 30 t ha−1SS along with 20 t ha−1 biochar was applied with only 50% RDN. The maximum availability of micronutrients in soil was found with 30 t ha−1 of SS + 50% RDN (T3) followed by conjoint application of 20 t ha−1 of biochar and 30 t ha−1 SS + 50% RDN (T9). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was focused on the synthesis and characterization of zinc (Zn)-coated urea fertilizer. Zinc oxide (ZnO) particles were coated on urea granules through two different coating techniques, i.e., slurry coating and wet coating, and the release rate of the coated Zn was measured up to 24 hours. Slurry coating technique showed better Zn release rate and morphology of coated urea granules as compared with wet coating technique using different binders, i.e., water, molasses, paraffin oil, and the combined mixture of honey bee wax and gum arabica. Urea granules synthesized through wet coating technique have a low amount of Zn as compared with slurry-coated urea granules. Urea granules coated through slurry coating technique and molasses, paraffin oil, and water (MPW) as a binder were the best in term of coating efficiency, uniform size distribution of ZnO-coated particles, granule's morphology, and release rate of Zn from coated formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent applications of nanotechnology in agriculture have successfully demonstrated the utility of nanomaterials as a potential plant-growth regulator. Practical application of nanomaterial-based fertilizers in agricultural lands requires a suitable substrate to effectively disperse the nanomaterials. In this study, a polymeric formulation of PVA–starch was synthesized as a substrate for the slow release of the Cu–Zn micronutrient carrying carbon nanofibers (CNFs). The Cu–Zn/CNFs were in situ dispersed in the PVA–starch blend during a polymerization step. The effectiveness of the prepared nanofertilizer was demonstrated using chickpea as a model plant and different doses, viz. 0.25, 0.50, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 g of PBMC per kg of soil (garden) up to 30 days. The dissolution of PBMC increased with increasing amounts of starch in the PBMC matrix, indicating the biodegradability of PVA in the blend. Scanning electron microscopy and elemental analysis confirmed the translocation of the Cu–Zn/CNFs from roots to shoots of the plant. The PBMC(1-1)-grown plants were measured to be the tallest (~ 33 cm), whereas the control plants reached a length of ~ 18 cm only, indicating the effectiveness of the prepared micronutrient in sustaining the plant growth. The superoxide anion radicals and hydrogen peroxide in the control plants were measured to be 207 ± 3.15 and 272 ± 5.74 nmol/g of the plant, whereas PBMC(1-1)-grown plants contained 129 ± 3.25 and 194 ± 6.47 nmol/g of the reactive oxygen species, respectively, indicating that the Zn nanoparticles were effective in scavenging the reactive species. The metal release profiles of PBMC indicated the Cu and Zn concentrations to be 5.3 ± 0.05 and 2.8 ± 0.1 mg/g-CNF, respectively, which were significantly lower from Cu–Zn/CNF, attributed to the slow release of the metals from the prepared polymeric formulation. The proposed integration of the biodegradable polymeric formulation with the micronutrient carrying CNFs opens a new perspective on the application of nanotechnology in agricultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was carried out during 2015-16 with speciality fertilizers of R.C.F. (Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers) Limited on the fruit yield and quality of pomegranate in an orchard with a soil pH of 8.7 and EC of 0.40 (ds m-1) in randomised block design (RBD). During the experiment the effects of foliar sprays of NPK 19:19:19 (Sujala), Micronutrient Fertilizer (Microla) and Phosphate Solubilising Bacteria (Biola) were studied. Sujala alone and in combination with Microla were applied with three and five sprays each respectively. Biola was applied only once before the application of foliar fertilizers through drenching method. The concentration of 0.5% and 0.2% of Sujala and Microla were used in the experiment respectively. The application of Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (RDF) along with each 5 sprays of Sujala and Microla recorded maximum yield (26.87 kg / plant), number of fruits (101.33) and average weight of fruit (272.00 g) followed by RDF along with Sujala, Microla (3 spray) and Biola. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deficiencies of secondary and micronutrients (SMNs) are major causes of low maize yields in poorly responsive soils. This phenomenon minimizes the agronomic efficiency of N, P and K fertilizers and consequently result in a dwindling economic benefit associated with their use. Therefore, 18 on-farm trials were conducted in western Kenya during two cropping seasons to assess maize response to three NPK amendments; (i) N, P, K, Ca, Zn and Cu (inorganic and organic); (ii) N, P, K, Ca, Zn and Cu (inorganic) and (iii) N, P K, Zn and Cu (inorganic) and evaluate the profitability of their use compared to additions of only N, P and K fertilizers. In this set of experiments, maize response to any amendment refers to a yield increase of x2 t ha-1 above control and could be categorized in three clusters. Cluster 1, comprising of nine sites, maize responded to all amendments. Cluster 2, holding six sites, maize responded only to one amendment, N, P, K, Ca, Zn and Cu (inorganic). In this cluster, (2), emerging S, Mg and Cu deficiencies may still limit maize production. Cluster 3; consisting of three sites, maize responded poorly to all amendments due to relatively high soil fertility (≤17 mg P kg-1). Profitability of using NPK amendments is limited to Cluster 1 and 2 and the largest Value Cost Ratio (VCR) of 3.1 is attainable only when soil available P is below 4.72 mg kg-1. These variable responses indicate the need for developing site-specific fertilizer recommendations for improved maize production and profitability of fertilizer use in poorly responsive soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to examine the effect of microbiological fertilizer 'Slavol' (MB) on selected physiological parameters for evaluating drought tolerance of seedlings (content of proline, leaf water potential, leaf area, content of photosynthetic pigments, total phenolic and fl avonoids) and subsequently on the yield and fruit quality of cherry tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. var. cerasiforme). Cherry tomato seedlings treated by MB had a lower content of proline and higher leaf water potential compared to non-treated seedlings under water stress, which indicates that microorganisms present in fertilizers contributes to better adaptation of cherry tomato seedlings to stress. The research results also showed that application of MB contribute to increasing of phenolic compounds and consequently strengthening of cherry tomato antioxidant defense system. Fruit quality parameters (TSS, TA, TPC, TFC, FRAP, content of ascorbic acid and lycopene) were significantly higher in fruits of cherry tomato subjected to drought, regardless of MB treatment, suggesting that exposure of plant to controlled water stress conditions may represent a very promising approach to enhance the nutritional quality of cherry tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid, accurate, and low-cost alternative analytical methods for micronutrient quantification in fertilizers are fundamental in QC. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) content in mineral fertilizers and industrial by-products determined by the alternative methods USEPA 3051a, 10% HCl, and 10% H2SO4 are statistically equivalent to the standard method, consisting of hot-plate digestion using concentrated HCl. The commercially marketed Zn and Cu sources in Brazil consisted of oxides, carbonate, and sulfate fertilizers and by-products consisting of galvanizing ash, galvanizing sludge, brass ash, and brass or scrap slag. The contents of sources ranged from 15 to 82% and 10 to 45%, respectively, for Zn and Cu. The Zn and Cu contents refer to the variation of the elements found in the different sources evaluated with the concentrated HCl method as shown in Table 1. A protocol based on the following criteria was used for the statistical analysis assessment of the methods: F-test modified by Graybill, t-test for the mean error, and linear correlation coefficient analysis. In terms of equivalents, 10% HCl extraction was equivalent to the standard method for Zn, and the results of the USEPA 3051a and 10% HCl methods indicated that these methods were equivalents for Cu. Therefore, these methods can be considered viable alternatives to the standard method of determination for Cu and Zn in mineral fertilizers and industrial by-products in future research for their complete validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the legumes, mungbean has highest digestive protein but low micronutrient content like iron and zinc. Biofortification of mungbean has been undertaken to reduce micronutrient malnutrition. The objectives of this study were to identify QTLs for seed Fe and Zn content in F6 recombinant inbred line (RIL) population (ML776 x Sattya). A large genetic variation and transgressive segregation in RILs were observed for Fe and Zn content. Linkage map was developed which spanned 2919.7cM distance. 17 QTLs (2 for iron and 15 for zinc content) were mapped on four linkage groups; LG 4, LG 6, LG 7 and LG 11 in mungbean. The genomic regions qZn-4-3 and qFe-4-1 on chromosome 4 between PVBR82-BM210 markers; qZn-11-2 and qFe-11-1 on chromosome11 between BM141-BM184 markers, were co-located on the same chromosomal regions for Zn or Fe concentration, which probably were closely linked to each other, or were the same pleiotropic QTLs. The SSR markers associated with QTLs for both high iron and zinc content would also be useful in marker assisted breeding for biofortification in mungbean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 6-month field experiment (from October to March) was conducted in a 20-year-old experimental grove of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in order to enhance its micronutrient levels and assess the effect of micronutrient foliar application manganese, zinc and boron (Mn, Zn and B) on mineral nutrition, chlorophyll concentration and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (Fv/Fm, Fv/F0and Performance index, PI) of the olive trees (cv. “Chondrolia Chalkidikis”). The experiment consisted of four treatments (Control-C: trees sprayed with deionized water, T50: trees sprayed with 50 mg/L Mn, Zn and B, T100: trees sprayed with 100 mg/L Mn, Zn and B, T200: trees sprayed with 200 mg/L Mn, Zn and B); the three micronutrients were applied in the forms of manganese sulfate (MnSO4), zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) and boric acid (H3BO3), respectively. The results showed that the most effective treatment for the enhancement of foliar Mn and B levels was T200, while for the increase of Zn levels was T100. In addition, significant differences among the treatments were recorded for most leaf nutrient concentrations (with the exception of potassium (K), which was not influenced by foliar treatment, the other macronutrients, such as calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N), as well as iron (Fe), obtained their maximum concentrations, at the end of the experiment, in C or T50 treatment). Chlorophyll concentrations were not influenced by foliar treatment. Concerning chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (Fv/Fm, Fv/F0and P index), significantly lower values were found in the control (C) trees, compared to the other three treatments, so it seems that a chlorophyll fluorescence technique may be used to detect micronutrient deficiencies in olive groves. However, from all the leaf nutrient concentrations determined, it was found that with the exceptions of: 1) Mn concentrations in the C, T50 and T100 treatments, which were marginal, or slightly deficient; 2) B and Zn concentrations in the C and T50 treatments, which were slightly deficient and marginal, respectively; 3) some K concentrations during the early spring period, which were slightly deficient, all the other concentrations were within the normal levels of sufficiency or within the optimum range, so no serious nutrient deficiency was detected. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Micronutrient fertilization may affect quality characteristics of potatoes. Here, compared to control ( Micro− ), the influence of pre-harvest foliar micronutrients fertilization ( Micro+ ) including B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo and Zn on both quality of raw potatoes and of minimally processed potato tubers of cv Bellini was investigated. In raw tubers physico-chemical and nutritional parameters were analysed at harvest, in minimally processed potatoes physico-chemical, nutritional and microbiological parameters were analysed after 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 d of storage at 4 °C. Preliminary results showed that micronutrients fertilization improved quality characteristics of raw potatoes, through an increase of firmness (+17%), total solids content (+16%), total soluble solids content (+12%), reducing sugars content (+12%), and ascorbic acid contents (+40%). Improved quality characteristics of Micro+ raw tubers allowed better performance of Micro+ minimally processed potatoes compared to Micro− , through higher firmness (+16%) total solids (+11%), total soluble solids (+21%), reducing sugars content (+20%), ascorbic acid content (+35%), as well as lower microbial growth, that allowed three days longer shelf life. Micronutrient fertilization could be a valuable pre-harvest treatment as it proved effective at improving physico-chemical and nutritional quality both of raw potatoes and of minimally processed potatoes and at extending their shelf-life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing the nitrogen (N) use efficiency of fruit trees to enhance fruit yield and decrease N rate and fertilization losses in the field is intensively discussed. Noteworthy, molybdenum (Mo) demand is likely to increase in high yielding citrus orchards. However, supply of this micronutrient through fertilization practices is not well-known. Thus, two experiments were carried out under greenhouse conditions to evaluate the nitrate reductase (NRase) activity and the Mo mobility in sweet orange plants (1-yr-old) after foliar application of Mo. For both experiments, the plants were supplied with two N levels via fertigation over 7-mo (totaling 2.8 and 17.5 g of N per plant), with Mo treatments applied in the final month. The first experiment consisted of leaf sprays to the whole plant canopy at 0 (control), 0.12, 0.60 and 1.20 g L −1 Mo. In the second experiment, the 0.60 g L −1 Mo spray was limited to one side of the canopy. The Mo supply enhanced the NRase activity either in leaves or roots and increased the nitrate uptake by roots. Consequently, the N content in the roots, twigs and leaves of plants increased. When the Mo was sprayed on one side of the canopy, the nutrient was translocated (30 − 40% from the absorbed) from the leaves to the roots, but at a lower percentage in plants grown with the highest N supply. Although the Mo concentration did not increase in leaves that did not directly receive the micronutrient spray, the NRase increased in both parts of the canopy, as well as in the roots, enhancing the N content in Citrus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decanted phosphate (DP) is a by-product of wastewater treatment with phosphoric acid (H3PO4), used as phosphate fertilizer in pastures. This experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using a sandy clay loam Typic Haplustox to evaluate the potential effects of DP on soil fertility, and production and nutrition of the Marandu grass during three growths periods in the presence or absence of lime. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized experimental design with three replications in a 6 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement: six doses of phosphorus (P), two sources of P, and presence (P/L) or absence (A/L) of lime. We used 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 mg kg-1 of P, applied as DP or triple superphosphate (TS). Lime was applied to the soil to raise the base saturation to 60%. The DP can be recommended for fertilization in pastures because of its residual supply of P to plants and its ability to decrease the soil acidity and increase the calcium (Ca) content in soil and uptake by plants. The supply of P to the soil by DP is higher under low soil acidity. The use of DP did not alter the contents of zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu) in shoots of the Marandu grass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bush tea (Athrixia phylicoides DC.) is an herbal beverage and medicinal plant indigenous to South Africa. This study evaluated the effects ofmicronutrients on bush tea quality. Treatments consisted of single applications of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), boron (Bo), iron (Fe), andmagnesium(Mg) at three levels (50, 100, and 150mL/L) and a combination of all micronutrients. A control treatment with no spray was also included. Tea samples were analyzed using head space solid phase microextraction gas chromatography linked to mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). A significant change in the metabolite profile of bush tea was noted. Five major compounds were identified (>80% identification probability) namely alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, myrcene, beta-caryophyllene, and caryophyllene oxide. A linear relationship between percentage leaf tissues and treatment levels ofmicronutrients in bush tea was also observed. The liquid chromatography linked to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) showed no significant qualitative difference between the control and the micronutrient treatments. There were significant quantitative differences between the control and treatments applied at 50 and 100 mL/L and the combination (B + Zn + Fe + Cu + Mg) applied at 10 and 20 mL/L. The application of micronutrients did have an influence on the metabolite quantities as has been reported with most secondary metabolite fluctuations caused by plant-environment interactions. Altering the micronutrient application may be a possible solution in achieving commercial agricultural production of this medicinal beverage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was done to determine the effect of increasing potassium fertiliser applications on some macro- and micronutrient element contents of rocket (Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa (Mill.)) plant. For this purpose a pot experiment was done with three replications in unheated greenhouse conditions, Namik Kemal University. Four potassium doses (as KNO3 form) (I dose: 0 mg kg–1, II dose: 50 mg kg–1, III dose: 100 mg kg–1 and IV dose: 150 mg kg–1) were applied to rocket (Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa (Mill.)) plant. Rocket plants were harvested 30 day after planting. Some macro- and micronutrient elements (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn) contents of plants were determined. According to the results, the increasing doses of potassium nitrate practices provide the increases of rocket plant some macro- and micronutrient element contents. These increases have been considered important at the level of 5% statistically and relatively IV dose application (150 mg kg–1) caused an increase in macro- and micronutrient elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light and boron play a significant role in the physiological growth and yield of crops such as groundnut. Even so, there has been little information on the application of boron in groundnut, while no information is available in Bangladesh regarding the imposition of light in groundnut. Therefore, two field experiments were conducted in order to evaluate the physiological growth and seed yield of groundnut. Treatments included two levels of light, viz., L0 = normal day length (≈12-h light) and L = normal day length + 6-h extended light at night (≈18-h light); three levels of boron, viz., 0-kg B ha-1 (B0), 1-kg B ha-1 (B1) and 2-kg B ha-1 (B2), and two groundnut varieties, viz., V1 = 'Dhaka-1' and V2 = 'BARI Chinabadam-8'. The results obtained from the experiment revealed that the highest LAI, LAR, LMR and RWR were recorded in L, B2 and V2 variants, while NAR was the highest in L0 and B0. Moreover, it was noted an inconsistent result for RGR found for boron application. Based on the results, it could be concluded that boron is one of the factors responsible for higher yield of groundnut; nevertheless, under the extended light, it is not possible to get the highest yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ashes from agricultural biomass in agro-based industries have been found to have most of the plant nutrients except nitrogen and sulphur but are treated as waste material. The present study was conducted to evaluate the potential of biomass ashes as source of P and their effect on bioavailability of micronutrients in wheat crop. We conducted the pot experiment at glass house of the Department of Soil Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India. The experiment consisted of combinations of four P sources [bagasse ash (BA), rice husk ash (RHA), rice straw ash (RSA), fertilizer P (Fert-P)] supplying P at three levels (10, 20 and 30 μg g-1) along with one zero-P control. This experiment was laid out in completely randomized design (CRD) having three replications. Application of P through RSA produced significantly higher grain yield (14.3 g pot-1) than BA (12.8 g pot-1) and RHA (12.9 g pot-1) but statistically at par with Fert-P (13.5 g pot-1). Grain Zn content decreased maximum than other micronutrients with application of P from all sources, hence maximum increased P/Zn ratio. Phosphorus applied from all the biomass ashes significantly increased biomass and yield over control. With increase in P application, micronutrients content in grain was significantly decreased, hence decreased bioavailability of micronutrients in wheat grain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation was carried out in a demonstrated field at Al-Ibrahimia district, El-Sharkia Governorate, Egypt, during 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 winter seasons to study the impact of three phosphorus levels (check, 15.5 and 31 kg P2O5/fad.) and five micronutrient spraying treatments [Zn, Mn, Fe, Zn + Mn + Fe and control (tap water)] on faba bean yield (Vicia faba L. cv. Giza 843) and seed protein content. The obtained results could be summarized as follows: Raising phosphorus level to 31 kg P2O5/fad., significantly increased number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and plant, as well as seed and stover yields per fad. Whereas , 100-seed weight and seed protein content were significantly decreased. However, plant height was not significantly affected by phosphorus levels. Micronutrients spraying reflected significant increase in seed yield and yield attributes. The foliar application of any of the following micronutrient treatments i.e. Mn, Fe and Zn + Mn + Fe had significant effect on seed yield per fad., while, micronutrient spraying treatments had insignificant effect on number of branches per plant and seed protein content compared with the control treatment. The interaction between the two factors had significant effects on yield and its components, where the highest seed yield per fad., (13.79 ardab) was achieved by addition of 31 kg P2O5/fad., with Mn foliar application (0.4 g/l). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil micronutrient deficiency adversely affects crop production in intensive agriculture. However, information on the spatial variability of key micronutrients in intensively cultivated regions of India is limited. Thus, the present study was carried out in the Trans-Gangetic Plains (TGP) region of India with the hypothesis that spatial variability of micronutrient availability is high due to small farms and varied management. The major objectives of the study were (i) to assess the spatial variability of plant available micronutrients, viz . extractable zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe) at a regional scale through geostatistical methods, (ii) to develop distribution maps for soil micronutrients using ordinary kriging and (iii) to assess the relationships of micronutrient availability with several soil properties. A total of 5638 soil samples, representative of the surface (0–15 cm) horizon were collected (covering Inceptisols, Entisols, Alfisols and Aridisols) during April to June between 2011 and 2014 from farms in 21 districts of the TGP. For each micronutrient, semivariograms were calculated and their main parameters (nugget effect, sill and range) were obtained. Moderate spatial dependence for extractable Zn, Cu and Fe and strong spatial dependence for extractable Mn were recorded. The nugget/sill ratio values were 0.60, 0.37, 0.34 and 0.19 for extractable Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn, respectively. Available Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu deficiencies (including acute deficiencies) were observed in 28, 15, 14 and 13% of soil samples, respectively. Soil pH showed significant and negative correlations with the concentrations of extractable Zn, Cu, Mn and Fe; whereas the correlation was significant and positive with soil organic carbon (SOC) concentration. The distribution maps generated could be used as a guide for precise and site-specific micronutrient management in the study region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of seed priming and foliar application with micronutrients zinc and iron (in both nano- and chemical formulations) on quality of forage corn (Zea mays L.) under field and greenhouse conditions was studied during two years. Seed priming and foliar spraying were performed with six treatments: nano-iron chelate, nano-zinc, chemical iron chelate, chemical zinc fertilizer, distilled water and control. Results indicated that both forms of iron fertilizer increased leaf chlorophyll concentration, compared to other spraying treatments and the control. The highest plant height, total dry biomass, crude protein, soluble carbohydrates and phosphorus uptake were obtained in the nano-iron spraying treatment. Significant improvement in leaf chlorophyll concentration, plant height, total dry matter, crude protein and soluble carbohydrates occurred as a result of spraying with both forms of zinc, but more evident for the nano-zinc treatment, compared with the control. Further studies are needed to elucidate the optimum timing of application, mode of action and critical range of nano zinc and iron concentrations. Aplication of nano-forms of fertilizers, compared to chemical forms of fertilizers, increased the phosphorus concentration, biomass, and crude protein and soluble carbohydrate concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micronutrients are essential for plant development; however, micronutrient content in soil often is not sufficient. This study compared availability of boron (B), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) in the soil and their effect in developing maize plants, supplied from a physical mixture of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) granules and micronutrients or from a granulated mixture of NPK coated with these micronutrients. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, with a Rhodic Acrustox soil and the formulation 4-30-10 [nitrogen-phosphorus pentoxide-potassium oxide (N-P2O5-K2O)] with 0.1% B, 0.2% Cu, 0.2% Mn, and 0.3% Zn. A randomized block design with four replicates was used and the NPK formula doses used were 0, 150, 300, 600, 1200, and 2400 kg/ha. Coated NPK increased Zn levels in soil in 0.5 mg/dm3in relation to its initial content, also causing an increase in plant dry matter. Compared with mixture, this increase was more than three times greater. Cu and Zn accumulation and Zn absorption were greater when their supply was made via coated granules. The larger dose of B via coated granules resulted in a greater B accumulation in comparison to the mixture. No differences were observed for the other variables when comparing both sources. Coating NPK granules with micronutrients was better than the mixture when comparing B, Cu, and Zn concentrations in the soil. Dry matter production of maize shoots and the accumulation of B, Mn, Cu, and Zn in it was greater when the fertilizer was coated with micronutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]