Accumulation of zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium by navy bean seed

Abstract

Considerable variation is found in zinc (Zn Concentration in navy bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) seed, an important food source of Zn and magnesium (Mg). The influence that phosphorus (P) and Zn fertilizers, and source of nitrogen (N) (inoculation with Rhizobium phaseoli versus 150 mg/kg NH₄NO₃‐N) had on growth and nutrient uptake of ‘Upland’ navy bean was studied under greenhouse conditions on a Glyndon loamy fine sand, a Calciaquoll low in available N, P, and Zn. Yields of stems (+ pod walls), blades, and seed were increased by N, P, and Zn fertilizers. Zinc concentration at maturity varied between 13 and 37 mg/kg for seed, 15 and 39 mg/kg for blades, and 5 and 30 mg/kg for stems. Zinc fertilizer was the chief factor responsible for this variability. Phosphorus concentration at maturity varied between 4.0 and 6.2 g/kg for seed, 1.9 and 11.8 g/kg for blades, and 1.0 to 2.7 g/kg for stems. Added P fertilizer increased P concentration in the three tissues, but the effect was most pronounced for blades of plants without added Zn. Magnesium concentration at maturity was mainly affected by N fertilizer.and ranged from 1.6 to 1.9 g/kg for seed, 4.0 and 9.7 g/kg for blades, and 4.0 to 7.1 g/kg for stems. Soil management can greatly affect Zn concentration in navy bean seed.