Application of K and Zn Influences the Mineral Accumulation More in Hybrid Than Inbred Maize Cultivars

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important crop used for feeding humans and cattle globally. Deficiency of potassium (K) and zinc (Zn) adversely impacts the maize crop productivity and quality. However, the application of these nutrients shows variant responses in different maize cultivars. To understand this perspective, the current study aimed at investigating K and Zn’s optimal concentration in different hybrid and inbred maize cultivars. The treatments were based on three zinc levels (0, 6, and 12 mg Zn kg−1) and K levels (0, 30, and 60 mg kg−1), and their respective combinations. The experiment results showed that combined fertilization approaches of Zn and K (Zn12K60) improved the plant biometric, and physiological attributes of maize crop. The results revealed a significant increase in plant height (45%), fresh weight (70%), and dry weight (45%). Similarly, physiological attributes significantly improved the relative water content (76.4%), membrane stability index (77.9%), chlorophyll contents (170%), and photosynthetic rate (130%) in both inbred and hybrid genotypes. Furthermore, Zn and K (Zn12K60) increased transpiration rate (E), stomatal conductance (Ci), and internal CO2. In conclusion, maize hybrids (Neelam and DK-6142) were observed best compared with inbred (Afghoi and P-1543) cultivars with the combined application of Zn and K (Zn12K60). Thus, these inbred varieties should be preferred for fodder requirement with optimum fertilizer (Zn12K60) application in Zn deficient soils.

Impacts of cobalt and zinc on improving peanuts nutrient uptake, yield and irrigation water use efficiency under different irrigation levels

“…Previous studies have also reported that foliar application of Zn affects yield and agronomic traits, enhancing the number of pods per plant Banks 84 . These results align with studies that suggest Co and Zn applications can enhance plant biomass, enzymatic actions, and physiological and chemical processes, leading to improved transpiration rates 85 , 86 . Therefore, applying the combined applications of Co + Znfol improved plant performance, growth, and nutrient uptake.…”

Potassium and zinc improves physiological performance, nutrient use efficiency, and productivity of wheat

“…It might be associated with the improved relative water content (RWC) and osmotic potential ( Fanaei et al., 2009 ). Application of Zn also improved the chlorophyll content in maize ( Raza et al., 2021 ), soybean ( Weisany et al., 2012 ), and wheat ( Sharma et al., 2005 ). In addition, photosynthetic rates, transpiration rates, and stomatal conductance were also improved possibly through the involvement in guard cell movement and osmoregulation that ultimately enhanced the stomatal conductance ( Imtiaz et al., 2023 ).…”

“…In addition, photosynthetic rates, transpiration rates, and stomatal conductance were also improved possibly through the involvement in guard cell movement and osmoregulation that ultimately enhanced the stomatal conductance ( Imtiaz et al., 2023 ). K application has also been reported to enhance the gas exchange in plants as well as opening and closing of stomata, especially in cauliflower ( Sharma et al., 1994 ) and maize ( Raza et al., 2021 ).…”

“…In addition, K is an important nutrient for numerous roles in plants such as protein synthesis, enzymatic activity, resistance against stresses, stomatal regulation, and xylem/phloem transportation. Although Pakistani soils are moderate in K concentration, due to improper cultivation practices, K deficiency might disturb crop performance ( Raza et al., 2021 ).…”

“…Zn acts as co-factor for 300 enzymes in plants and is considered an essential nutrient for plant growth. Due to less Zn availability due to its fixation with clay particles, high pH range, and soil calcareousness, Pakistani soils are also deficient in Zn ( Raza et al., 2021 ).…”