Effect of Foliar Application of Phosphorus and Zinc on Biometric and Quality Attributes of Fodder Maize in Calcareous Saline-Sodic Soils

Abstract

The hot climate is the major reason to promote salt salinization and sodication, which retards the crop productivity. The increase in salt-affected soils is adversely affecting worldwide productivity. The antagonistic effect among P and Zn causes nutrient deficiency and increases under saline conditions. The present study aimed to identify the targeted influence of foliar application of P and Zn on maize biometric and fodder quality parameters under saline-sodic conditions. The experiment was based on three P (0, 1, 2, 2.5%) and Zn levels (0, 1, and 1.5%), with three replications. The study showed that P concentration in maize was improved significantly with Z1P1 (51.0%) application, followed by Z0P2 (33.15%) and Z1.5P2.5 (28.0%). The Zn concentration enhanced with Z1P0 (91.73%), followed by Z0P1 (84.45%) and Z1.5P1 (84.18%). Nitrogen concentration improved with Z1.5P2.5 (39.84%). Total mineral contents were increased with Z1.5P2 (156.71%), followed by Z0P1 (142.64%) and Z0P2 (141.99%). Crude protein concentration was improved in Z1.5P1 (39.92%), followed by Z0P2 (11.92%). Crude fat percentage was increased with Z0P2.5 (51.89%), followed by Z0P1 (34.91%) as compared to Z0P0. The study concludes that foliar application of P and Zn in saline-sodic conditions helps retard the negative impacts of salts on biometric and quality parameters of maize fodder.