Zinc Tolerance in Wheat Cultivars as Affected by Varying Levels of Phosphorus

Abstract

The effect of zinc–phosphorus (Zn‐P) interaction on Zn efficiency of six wheat cultivars was studied. The higher dry matter yields were observed when Zn was applied at 5 µg g⁻¹ soil than with no Zn application. Phosphorus applications also increased dry matter yield up to the application of 25 µg P g⁻¹ soil. The dry matter yield was significantly lower at the P rate of 250 µg g⁻¹ soil. At the Zn‐deficient level, the Zn‐efficient cultivars had higher Zn concentrations in the shoots. Zinc concentrations in all cultivars increased when the P level in the soil was increased from 0 to 25 µg P g⁻¹ soil except for the cv. Durati, in which Zn concentrations decreased with increases in P levels. However, when Zn×P interactions were investigated, it was observed that at a Zn‐deficient level, Zn concentrations in the plant shoot decreased with each higher level of P, and more severe Zn deficiency was observed at P level of 250 µg g⁻¹ soil.

Keywords:

• Cultivars, efficiency, micronutrients, phosphorus, uptake, zinc

Acknowledgments

The authors gratefully acknowledge the receipt of funds for Muhammad Imtiaz during the period of this project. Ann Dudly is acknowledged for assistance with analysis.