Increasing wheat and rice productivity in the sub-tropics using micronutrient enriched seed
Bodruzzaman, M.; Lauren, J.G.; Duxbury, J.M.; Sadat, M.A.; Welch, R.M.; E. Elahi, N.; Meisner, C.A.
Micronutrients in South and South East Asia Proceedings of an International Workshop held in Kathmandu, Nepal, 8-11 September 2004: 187-198
2005
Document Number: 340207
Many soils in the high rainfall subtropics are deficient in micronutrients, especially zinc (Zn), boron (B) and molybdenum (Mo). In vivo micronutrient enrichment of seed via foliar applications of micronutrients on the mother plants was evaluated as a strategy to address soil micronutrient deficiencies because farmers have limited access to soil testing for micronutrients. Seed enrichment was expected to alleviate soil deficiencies and to provide resistance against seedling root diseases. Fertiliser salts of Zn, Mo, nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and boron (B) were sprayed at recommended concentrations for 5 or 10 times during the growth stages of wheat and rice, respectively. Both wheat and rice seeds were enriched with all micronutrients, except B. Wheat seedling emergence and vigour were enhanced when seeds were enriched with micronutrients compared to unenriched seeds. This was due to increased resistance to soil-borne pathogens. Wheat and rice seeds enriched with micronutrients that were sown in farmers' fields had increased yields relative to unenriched control seeds. Wheat yields increased at an average of 25% in 12 of 47 on-farm trials in northwest Bangladesh. Rice yields increased at an average of 22% in 12 of 17 on-farm trials in the same area. Results indicated that seeds enriched with micronutrients could improve yields of both wheat and rice in areas with micronutrient deficient soils without soil testing.