Cultivar differences for tolerance to Fe and Zn deficiency: A comparison of two maize hybrids and their parents

Abstract

The Fe and Zn deficiency tolerances for two high yielding maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids (G‐2 and G‐5) and their parent cultivars were examined by growing them in nutrient solutions. The results indicated the occurrence of heterosis for Zn deficiency tolerance in G‐5, and to a lesser extent in G‐2. Each cultivar was susceptible to Fe deficiency and did not show signs of recovery from chlorosis. The symptoms of Fe deficiency were distinct from those for Zn deficiency. Plant growth was affected more by Fe deficiency than by Zn deficiency. The roots of cultivars were reduced in growth under Fe deficiency conditions.

Key words:

• Nutrient deficiency
• Iron
• Zinc
• Cultivars
• Zea mays L.