Document Type : Research Article

Authors

Abstract

Iron is an essential micronutrient for plant growth. The existence of lime, low content of organic matter and excess application of phosphate fertilizer in soils are the factors affecting its availability. In this study the effects of lime, phosphorus and organic matter on growth and iron uptake of maize were evaluated. A greenhouse experiment was conducted with two levels of lime (0, 2% calcium carbonate) two levels of organic matter (0 , 1% cattle manure),three levels of phosphorus (0, 200, 400 kg ha-1 triple super phosphate). The experimental design used, was completely randomized ,factorial, with 2 replications. Results showed that application of cattle manure significantly increased shoot dry weight, iron concentration and iron uptake of maize. The application of lime had no significant effect on shoot dry weight however it decreased iron concentration and iron uptake of maize. Application of phosphorus increased shoot dry weight but decreased iron concentration and iron uptake of plant. The study of organic matter interaction with one of the other treatments showed that application of organic manure can improve the negative effects of lime and phosphorus.

Keywords

CAPTCHA Image