Biofortification of Maize Grain with Zinc and Iron by Using Fertilizing Approach

Abstract

The study was conducted to evaluate the response of hybrid maize towards zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) fertilization applied both as soil and foliar application. It is a possible way to increase the zinc and iron concentration in maize grain by the application of Zn and Fe fertilizers. To verify the claim an experiment was conducted. Maize hybrid was selected and three levels of Zn & Fe (viz.10, 20 and 30 kg ha-1) were applied at the sowing time. The foliar appliance of zinc sulphate and iron sulphate at the rate of 0.1% Zn and Fe was applied. Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium were applied at recommended levels. There was a control plot with no use of Zn and Fe. Maize crop was harvested, grains were separated. Maize grain yield was recorded and analyzed for their Zn and Fe content. The results indicated that maize grain yield and their Zn and Fe content responded positively towards Zn and Fe application applied as soil or foliar application. The 30 kg of Zn and Fe ha-1 gave highest grain yield (7.76 t ha-1) which is at par with 7.64 t ha-1 grain yield from the plots receiving 20 kg of Zn and Fe/ha. The foliar reliance of Zn and Fe application raised the grain Zn (31.8 mg kg-1) and Fe (153.8 mg kg-1) contents. This increase is 55% and 51.8% in case of Zn & Fe, respectively over control. It is concluded from the study that iron and zinc fertilization is an effective way to increase corn yield, their concentration in maize grain and finally to get better quality corn.