Interaction effects of phosphorus (P) and zinc (Zn) on dry matter, concentration and uptake of P and Zn in chia

Abstract

Interaction of phosphorus (P) and zinc (Zn) is a crucial factor affecting crop yield in agricultural production. A greenhouse experiment was established to investigate the effects of P (0, 25, 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg kg(-1)), Zn (0, 2.5, 5 and 10 mg kg(-1)) and their interaction on dry matter accumulation, P and Zn concentration and their uptake in chia (Salvia hispanica L.). The application of P significantly increased dry matter by 6.3-fold over the control, while Zn treatment resulted in a 1.2-fold increase. The effect of P and Zn interaction was significant on dry matter, P and Zn concentration and their uptake. Dry matter did not respond to Zn application at low P doses, however, chia plants produced 8-fold higher dry matter at high levels of P and Zn compared to the control. Although P and Zn application showed a positive effect on chia growth, high levels of P drastically decreased Zn concentration. The application of P up to 100 mg P kg(-1) enhanced Zn uptake significantly, but additional P doses resulted in a decrease. It is concluded that a balanced fertilization of P is rather important to prevent Zn deficiency and improve chia growth.