The co-application of bioslurry and compost with inorganic zinc fertilizer improved soil quality, zinc uptake, and growth of maize crop.

Integrated nutrient management is one of the most effective techniques to tackle soil fertility concerns and boost crop productivity. Taking this into consideration, a pot experiment was carried out to determine the effects of selected organic amendments and zinc (Zn) fertilizer on the soil quality, Zn uptake, growth, and yield of maize (Zea mays L.). Fifteen treatments containing different combinations of three organic sources comprising of compost (5 ton/ha), bioslurry (10 ton/ha), farmyard manure (10 ton/ha), and a Zn sulfate (6 kg of Zn/ha) fertilizer as an inorganic source were employed. The individual and combined application of compost, bioslurry, farmyard manure, and Zn sulfate significantly and positively affected the soil chemical properties, nutrient uptake, physiology, growth, and yield attributes of maize. Interestingly, the co-addition of bioslurry and compost with Zn sulfate was the most effective treatment that significantly increased the seed germination (75%), plant physiology (72–96%), shoot and root lengths (68–82%), shoot fresh and dry weights (66–65%) and root fresh and dry weights (84–86%), 1000-grain weight (91%), and Zn in grain (71%) as compared to their respective controls. Furthermore, the co-application of bioslurry and compost with Zn sulfate considerably improved the soil quality attributes (62–87%). The findings of the current study imply that combining compost and bioslurry with Zn fertilizer could be a useful strategy for improving soil quality, Zn uptake and accumulation in grains, and the overall quality and productivity of maize crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]